Commodity sales data processing apparatus and program

Abstract

To provide an information processing device and a program that can detect a sign of a malfunction while operating the information processing device.SOLUTION: A processing time acquisition unit acquires a processing time required for certain processing. An operation state determination unit compares the processing time acquired by the processing time acquisition unit and a threshold time (time according to the certain processing) to determine whether there is a sign that a failure occurs in an operation of a self POS terminal (an information processing device).SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to Merchandise sales data a processing device and a program.

Background Art

[0002] It is disclosed to perform a failure diagnosis during a period when a device is not in use in order to detect a malfunction of the device (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] However, with the method described in Patent Document 1, although a malfunction of the device can be detected, a sign indicating that a malfunction is about to occur cannot be detected. Also, a failure diagnosis cannot be performed while the device is in use.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide Merchandise sales data a processing device and a program capable of detecting a sign of a malfunction while operating the device.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] The product sales data processing device according to the embodiment includes a processing time acquisition unit and an operation state determination unit. The processing time acquisition unit acquires the processing time taken for itself to be connected to The change dispenser , To complete the discharge of coins or banknotes The operation state determination unit determines that there is a sign of a failure in the operation of Based on the processing time, the time required for discharging one coin or one banknote when the processing time acquired by the processing time acquisition unit is The change dispenser longer than the processing time when it is operating normally Required for discharging one coin or one banknote and determines that there is a sign of a failure in the operation of The change dispenser .

[0006] Also, the product sales data processing device according to the embodiment includes a processing time acquisition unit, a processing time accumulation unit, and an operation state determination unit. The processing time acquisition unit acquires the processing time taken for itself to be connected to The change dispenser to complete the discharge of coins or banknotesObtain the required processing time. The processing time accumulation unit accumulates the processing time obtained by the processing time acquisition unit. The operation state determination unit determines whether there is a sign that a failure has occurred in the operation of Based on, the time required for discharging one coin or one banknote the average time and the processing time obtained by the processing time acquisition unit Based on the processing time, the time required for discharging one coin or one banknote by comparing the processing time. The change dispenser

Brief Description of the Drawings

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0007]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

[0008] (First Embodiment) As a first embodiment of the present invention, a self-POS terminal having a function of detecting a sign of a problem will be described.

[0009] (Explanation of the Overall Configuration of the Self-POS Terminal) The self-POS terminal 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1. FIG. 1 is a schematic perspective view of the self-POS terminal according to the first embodiment.

[0010] The self-POS terminal 10 includes a display 11, a scanner 13, and a hand scanner 14. A touch panel 12 is disposed on the surface of the display 11. Note that the self-POS terminal 10 is an example of the information processing apparatus in the present invention.

[0011] The display 11 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The display 11 displays a guidance screen (not shown) for informing the customer of the operation method of the self-POS terminal 10. Further, the display 11 displays a selection registration screen (not shown) for assisting in registering a product by selecting a preset button in which the product is preset in advance. Further, the display 11 displays product information registered by reading a code symbol attached to the product by the scanner 13 or the hand scanner 14. Further, the display 11 displays an accounting screen (not shown) for displaying the total amount of the product, the deposit amount, the change amount, etc., and allowing the customer to select a payment method.

[0012] Scanner 13 and handheld scanner 14 read code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes attached to products. Scanner 13 includes, for example, an optical imaging device such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor), and captures an image of the imaging area in front of the reading window. The customer causes scanner 13 to read the code symbol by obscuring the code symbol attached to the product with the reading window of scanner 13. For large products such as cardboard boxes and long products, it is difficult to obscure the code symbol attached to the product with the reading window of scanner 13. In such cases, the customer causes the code symbol to be read by obscuring the code symbol such as the barcode attached to the product with handheld scanner 14. Code information such as a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code or CODE128 that can uniquely identify the product is registered in the code symbol. Note that scanner 13 and handheld scanner 14 may further have a function of identifying the product by general object recognition (object recognition).

[0013] On the right side of the self-service POS terminal 10, there is provided a product placement table 30 on which customers place unpaid products in their baskets. On the left side of the self-service POS terminal 10, there is provided a product placement table 31 on which customers place paid products. Above the product placement table 31, there are provided a bag hook 32 on which customers can hang bags in which they will put paid products, and a temporary placement table 33 on which customers can temporarily place paid products before putting them in their bags. The product placement table 30 includes a weighing device 16 therein. The weighing device 16 includes a load cell (not shown) and an analog-to-digital conversion circuit (not shown), and measures the total weight of the basket and unpaid products placed on the product placement table 30. The product placement table 31 also includes a weighing device 17 therein. Weighing device 17 includes a load cell (not shown) and an analog-digital conversion circuit (not shown), and measures the total weight applied to product placement table 31 and temporary placement table 33. Self-service POS terminal 10 issues a notification when the total weight of the products before and after product registration differs by a predetermined level or more, i.e., when the total weight measured by weighing device 16 and the total weight measured by weighing device 17 differ by a predetermined level or more.

[0014] The self-service POS terminal 10 further includes a card reader 18 that reads a customer's point card or credit card. The card reader 18 reads the customer's point card or credit card inserted through a card insertion slot 34. The self-service POS terminal 10 also includes a receipt printer 19 that prints receipts. The receipts printed by the receipt printer 19 are issued through a receipt issuing slot 35.

[0015] The self-service POS terminal 10 also includes a banknote deposit / withdrawal device 20 and a coin deposit / withdrawal device 21 that calculate the amounts of banknotes and coins deposited by a customer at the time of settlement and dispense change banknotes and coins as necessary. The banknote deposit / withdrawal device 20 performs a banknote deposit / withdrawal process. The coin deposit / withdrawal device 21 performs a banknote deposit / withdrawal process. A customer deposits banknotes for settlement and receives change banknotes via a banknote deposit / withdrawal port 36. A customer also deposits coins through a coin insertion port 37 and receives change through a coin removal port 38.

[0016] Furthermore, a pole is provided on the upper surface of the self-POS terminal 10. At the upper end of the pole, a warning light 22 is provided which lights up when there is an abnormality in the operation performed by the self-POS terminal 10, when an abnormality occurs in the operation of the self-POS terminal 10, or when a store clerk is called, etc.

[0017] (Description of the hardware configuration of the self-POS terminal) Next, with reference to FIG. 2, the hardware configuration of the self-POS terminal 10 will be described. FIG. 2 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the self-POS terminal according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 2, the self-POS terminal 10 includes a control unit 40, a storage unit 44, an input / output control unit 45, and a communication control unit 46.

[0018] The control unit 40 has a configuration of a general computer including a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 41, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 42, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 43. The CPU 41 reads out various programs and data files stored in the ROM 42 and the storage unit 44 described later, and expands them in the RAM 43. The CPU 41 operates according to the various programs and data files expanded in the RAM 43, and controls the overall operation of the self-POS terminal 10.

[0019] The control unit 40 is connected to the storage unit 44, the input / output control unit 45, and the communication control unit 46 via an internal bus 47, respectively.

[0020] The storage unit 44 retains the stored information even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 44 is, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). Alternatively, a non-volatile memory such as a flash memory may be provided instead of the HDD. The storage unit 44 stores programs including a control program P1. The control program P1 is a program for causing the self-POS terminal 10 to exhibit its functions.

[0021] Note that the control program P1 may be pre - incorporated and provided in the ROM 42. Also, the control program P1 may be a file in a form installable or executable in the control unit 40, and may be configured to be recorded and provided on a computer - readable recording medium such as a CD - ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD - R, a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), etc. Further, the control program P1 may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet, and may be provided by being downloaded via the network. Also, the control program P1 may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0022] The storage unit 44 further stores a product master file M. The product master file M is a master file that stores product information such as the name and unit price of a product in association with a product code. Note that the product master file M is sequentially updated when the self - service POS terminal 10 communicates with a store server (not shown).

[0023] Also, the storage unit 44 stores a sales file F in which product information related to products purchased by customers is sequentially registered.

[0024] The input / output control unit 45 connects the control unit 40 to a display 11, a touch panel 12, a scanner 13, a hand scanner 14, weighing devices 16, 17, a card reader 18, a receipt printer 19, a bill depositing / withdrawing device 20, a coin depositing / withdrawing device 21, and a warning lamp 22, all of which are input / output devices provided in the self - service POS terminal 10, via an internal bus 47. The functions of each input / output device are as described above.

[0025] The communication control unit 46 controls the communication between the self - service POS terminal 10 and a store server (not shown) to perform input / output of various information.

[0026] (Explanation of the functional configuration of the self - service POS terminal) Next, the functional configuration of the self-POS terminal 10 will be described with reference to FIG. 3. FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the self-POS terminal according to the first embodiment.

[0027] The control unit 40 (see FIG. 2) of the self-POS terminal 10 realizes, as functional units, a code symbol reading unit 50, a product registration processing unit 51, a weight comparison unit 52, a deposited amount calculation unit 53, a settlement processing unit 54, a change dispensing unit 55, a receipt printing unit 56, a notification control unit 57, a display control unit 58, an operation control unit 59, a processing time acquisition unit 60, and an operation state determination unit 65 by expanding and operating a control program P1 in the RAM 43.

[0028] The code symbol reading unit 50 reads a code symbol attached to a product and including information for specifying the product by the scanner 13 or the hand scanner 14. The code symbol is, for example, a barcode, a two-dimensional code, or the like.

[0029] The product registration processing unit 51 registers the products purchased by the customer and calculates the total amount of the products.

[0030] The weight comparison unit 52 compares the weight measured by the weighing instrument 16 with the weight measured by the weighing instrument 17.

[0031] The deposited amount calculation unit 53 calculates the total amount obtained by adding up the total amount of the banknotes deposited in the banknote depositing and dispensing device 20 and the total amount of the coins deposited in the coin depositing and dispensing device 21.

[0032] The settlement processing unit 54 performs a settlement process for settling the purchase price based on the result registered by the product registration processing unit 51.

[0033] The change dispensing unit 55 calculates the change amount by comparing the purchase price of the product with the total amount of the banknotes and coins inserted. Also, the change dispensing unit 55 dispenses change banknotes from the banknote depositing and dispensing device 20. Further, the change dispensing unit 55 dispenses change coins from the coin depositing and dispensing device 21.

[0034] The receipt printing unit 56 prints the content settled by the settlement processing unit 54 on the receipt printer 19 and issues it as a receipt.

[0035] When there is an abnormality in the operation performed on the self-POS terminal 10, when an abnormality occurs in the operation of the self-POS terminal 10, or when calling a store clerk, etc., the notification control unit 57 performs notification by the warning lamp 22. Further, the notification control unit 57 notifies the store server of the situation when it is the above-described situation.

[0036] The display control unit 58 controls the information to be displayed on the display 11.

[0037] The operation control unit 59 detects the content of the operation performed by the touch panel 12.

[0038] The processing time acquisition unit 60 acquires the processing time required for a specific process to be performed in the self-POS terminal 10. The processing time acquisition unit 60 further includes a reading time acquisition unit 61, a coin dispensing time acquisition unit 62, and a bill dispensing time acquisition unit 63.

[0039] The reading time acquisition unit 61 acquires the reading time required for the scanner 13 or the hand scanner 14 to read the code symbol. Note that the reading time is measured by a timer provided in the CPU 41.

[0040] The coin dispensing time acquisition unit 62 acquires the time required for the coin dispensing of the change coins and the number of change coins dispensed by the coin handling device 21. The time required for the coin dispensing of the change coins is acquired as the time from when the change dispensing unit 55 instructs the coin dispensing of the change coins until all the change coins are dispensed. Also, the number of change coins dispensed is specified when the change dispensing unit 55 calculates the change amount. Note that the time required for the coin dispensing is measured by a timer provided in the CPU 41.

[0041] The bill dispensing time acquisition unit 63 acquires the time required for the bill dispensing of the change bills and the number of bills dispensed. The time required for the bill dispensing of the change bills is acquired as the time from when the change dispensing unit 55 instructs the bill dispensing of the change bills until all the change bills are dispensed. Also, the number of bills dispensed is specified when the change dispensing unit 55 calculates the change amount. Note that the time required for the bill dispensing is measured by a timer provided in the CPU 41.

[0042] The operation state determination unit 65 determines whether there are signs of malfunction in the scanner 13 or the hand scanner 14 of the self-POS terminal 10 by comparing the processing time required for a specific process acquired by the reading time acquisition unit 61 with the time corresponding to the specific process.

[0043] The scanner 13 irradiates the light emitted by a light emitting unit (not shown) onto the code symbol and receives the reflected light from the code symbol, thereby inputting the black and white pattern of the code symbol. Therefore, if the surface of the reading window is dirty, the light becomes weak, and thus the reflected light from the code symbol becomes weak, which may cause a decrease in the contrast of the black and white pattern. And when the contrast of the black and white pattern decreases, generally the reading time in the code symbol reading unit 50 becomes longer. When the reading time extends, the customer's accounting process is delayed, so it is necessary to respond immediately as a malfunction of the self-POS terminal 10. Therefore, the operation state determination unit 65 compares the reading time (processing time) acquired by the reading time acquisition unit 61 with the reading time of the scanner 13 (the time corresponding to a specific process) when the self-POS terminal 10 is operating normally. And when the reading time acquired by the reading time acquisition unit 61 is longer than the reading time of the scanner 13 when the self-POS terminal 10 is operating normally, it is determined that there are signs of malfunction in the scanner 13.

[0044] Further, the hand scanner 14 irradiates light from a light emitting unit (not shown) onto the code symbol and receives the reflected light from the code symbol, thereby reading the black-and-white pattern of the code symbol. Therefore, if the surface of the light emitting unit is dirty, the irradiated light becomes weak, and thus the reflected light from the code symbol becomes weak, which may reduce the contrast of the black-and-white pattern. When the contrast of the black-and-white pattern decreases, generally the reading time in the code symbol reading unit 50 becomes longer. When the reading time extends, the customer's accounting process is delayed, so it is necessary to respond immediately as a malfunction of the self-POS terminal 10. Therefore, the operation state determination unit 65 compares the reading time (processing time) acquired by the reading time acquisition unit 61 with the reading time of the hand scanner 14 (time corresponding to a specific process) when the self-POS terminal 10 is operating normally. Then, when the reading time acquired by the reading time acquisition unit 61 is longer than the reading time of the hand scanner 14 when the self-POS terminal 10 is operating normally, it is determined that there is a sign of malfunction in the hand scanner 14.

[0045] Also, the operation state determination unit 65 compares the time required for coin payout (specifically, the payout time per coin) acquired by the coin payout time acquisition unit 62 with the payout time per coin (time corresponding to a specific process) when the coin handling device 21 is operating normally, thereby determining whether there is a sign of a failure in the coin handling device 21 of the self-POS terminal 10.

[0046] The change coins paid out by the coin depositing and withdrawing device 21 are conveyed by a belt driven by a drive roller (not shown) to the coin payout opening 38 (see FIG. 1) and paid out. If dirt adheres to the belt or the movement of the drive roller becomes sluggish due to aging deterioration, the conveyance speed of the coins decreases and the payout time per coin becomes longer. When the coin payout time becomes longer, the customer's accounting process is delayed, so it is necessary to respond immediately as a malfunction of the self-POS terminal 10. Therefore, the operation state determination unit 65 compares the coin payout time acquired by the coin payout time acquisition unit 62 with the coin payout time per coin when the coin depositing and withdrawing device 21 is operating normally, and the coin payout time per coin when there is no malfunction, to determine whether there is a sign that an obstacle has occurred in the operation of the coin depositing and withdrawing device 21. Note that since the coin payout time becomes longer as the number of coins paid out increases, the operation state determination unit 65 makes a determination after converting it to the coin payout time per coin. And when the coin payout time per coin acquired by the coin payout time acquisition unit 62 is equal to or longer than the coin payout time per coin when there is no malfunction, the operation state determination unit 65 determines that there is a sign of malfunction in the coin depositing and withdrawing device 21.

[0047] Furthermore, the operation state determination unit 65 compares the time required for paying out the banknotes (precisely, the payout time per banknote) acquired by the banknote payout time acquisition unit 63 with the payout time per banknote (time according to specific processing) when the banknote depositing and withdrawing device 20 is operating normally, to determine whether there is a sign that an obstacle has occurred in the banknote depositing and withdrawing device 20.

[0048] The change banknotes dispensed by the banknote deposit / withdrawal device 20 are conveyed by a belt driven by a drive roller (not shown) to the banknote deposit / withdrawal opening 36 (see FIG. 1) and then withdrawn. If dirt adheres to the belt or the movement of the drive roller becomes sluggish due to aging deterioration, the conveyance speed of the banknotes decreases, and the withdrawal time per banknote becomes longer. When the banknote withdrawal time becomes longer, the customer's accounting process is delayed, so it is necessary to respond immediately as a malfunction of the self-POS terminal 10. Therefore, the operation state determination unit 65 determines whether there is a sign that an obstacle has occurred in the operation of the banknote deposit / withdrawal device 20 by comparing the banknote withdrawal time acquired by the banknote withdrawal time acquisition unit 63 with the withdrawal time per banknote when there is no malfunction. Note that since the banknote withdrawal time becomes longer as the number of banknotes to be withdrawn increases, the operation state determination unit 65 makes a determination after converting it to the withdrawal time per banknote. And when the withdrawal time per banknote acquired by the banknote withdrawal time acquisition unit 63 is equal to or longer than the withdrawal time per banknote when there is no malfunction, the operation state determination unit 65 determines that there is a sign of malfunction in the banknote deposit / withdrawal device 20.

[0049] (Explanation of the process flow performed by the self-POS terminal) Next, with reference to FIG. 4, the process flow performed by the self-POS terminal 10 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the process flow performed by the self-POS terminal according to the first embodiment.

[0050] The weight comparison unit 52 measures the weight of the basket containing the pre-registered product by the weighing scale 16 (step S10).

[0051] The code symbol reading unit 50 reads the code symbol attached to the product by the scanner 13 or the hand scanner 14 (step S11).

[0052] The processing time acquisition unit 60 and the operation state determination unit 65 perform the first operation state determination process with respect to the reading time of the scanner 13 or the hand scanner 14 (step S12). The detailed flow of the first operation state determination process will be described later (see FIG. 5).

[0053] The product registration processing unit 51 registers the product purchased by the customer by comparing the product code registered in the code symbol read by the code symbol reading unit 50 with the product master file M (step S13).

[0054] The product registration processing unit 51 determines whether the product registration is completed (step S14). If it is determined that the product registration is completed (step S14: Yes), the process proceeds to step S15. On the other hand, if it is determined that the product registration is not completed (step S14: No), the process returns to step S11. Note that whether the product registration is completed may be determined, for example, by the fact that the subtotal key is pressed on the touch panel 12.

[0055] When it is determined Yes in step S14, the weight comparison unit 52 measures the weight of the basket containing all the registered products by the weighing instrument 17 (step S15).

[0056] Subsequently, the weight comparison unit 52 determines whether the weight of the basket containing the product before and after registration is equal (step S16). If it is determined that the weight of the basket is equal (step S16: Yes), the process proceeds to step S17. On the other hand, if it is determined that the weight of the basket is not equal (step S16: No), the process proceeds to step S25.

[0057] When it is determined Yes in step S16, the payment amount calculation unit 53 counts the payment amount (step S17). Note that after the customer inserts banknotes or coins for payment, the customer presses an input completion button (not shown) displayed on the touch panel 12. The payment amount calculation unit 53 counts the total amount of banknotes and coins inserted until the input completion button is pressed.

[0058] Next, the change dispensing unit 55 calculates the change amount by comparing the purchase price of the product with the total amount of banknotes and coins inserted (step S18).

[0059] Then, the change disbursement unit 55 determines whether change has occurred (step S19). If it is determined that change has occurred (step S19: Yes), the process proceeds to step S20. On the other hand, if it is determined that change has not occurred (step S19: No), the process proceeds to step S24.

[0060] When it is determined as Yes in step S19, the change disbursement unit 55 disburses change bills from the bill deposit and withdrawal device 20 (step S20).

[0061] The processing time acquisition unit 60 and the operation state determination unit 65 perform a second operation state determination process on the bill disbursement time of the bill deposit and withdrawal device 20 (step S21). The detailed flow of the second operation state determination process will be described later (see Fig. 6).

[0062] Subsequently, the change disbursement unit 55 disburses change coins from the coin deposit and withdrawal device 21 (step S22).

[0063] The processing time acquisition unit 60 and the operation state determination unit 65 perform a third operation state determination process on the coin disbursement time of the coin deposit and withdrawal device 21 (step S23). The detailed flow of the third operation state determination process will be described later (see Fig. 7).

[0064] Although not specified in Fig. 4, if there are no change bills, the processes of steps S20 and S21 are not performed. Also, if there are no change coins, the processes of steps S22 and S23 are not performed.

[0065] Following step S23, or when it is determined as No in step S19, the receipt printing unit 56 issues a receipt (step S24). Thereafter, the self-POS terminal 10 ends the process of Fig. 4.

[0066] If it is determined as No in step S16, the notification control unit 57 lights up the warning lamp 22 to call the store clerk in the vicinity. The store clerk goes to the self-POS terminal 10 to check the customer's situation. Thereafter, the self-POS terminal 10 ends the process of Fig. 4.

[0067] (Explanation of the flow of the first operation state determination process) Next, with reference to FIG. 5, the flow of the first operation state determination process will be described. FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the first operation state determination process performed by the self-POS terminal according to the first embodiment.

[0068] The reading time acquisition unit 61 acquires the reading time of the scanner 13 or the reading time of the hand scanner 14 (step S30).

[0069] The operation state determination unit 65 determines whether the reading time acquired in step S30 is equal to or greater than the threshold time T1 (step S31). If it is determined that the reading time is equal to or greater than the threshold time T1 (step S31: Yes), the process proceeds to step S32. On the other hand, if it is determined that the reading time is not equal to or greater than the threshold time T1 (step S31: No), the process returns to step S13 in FIG. 4. The threshold time T1 is a time determined based on the reading time of the scanner 13 or the reading time of the hand scanner 14 acquired in advance when the self-POS terminal 10 is operating normally. That is, the threshold time T1 is an example of a time corresponding to a specific process in the present disclosure.

[0070] When it is determined as Yes in step S31, the notification control unit 57 transmits information indicating that confirmation of the scanner 13 or the hand scanner 14 is necessary to the store server (step S32). Thereafter, the process returns to step S13 in FIG. 4.

[0071] Since the scanner 13 and the hand scanner 14 are separate devices, the process in FIG. 5 is executed for each of the scanner 13 and the hand scanner 14.

[0072] (Explanation of the flow of the second operation state determination process) Next, with reference to FIG. 6, the flow of the second operation state determination process will be described. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the second operation state determination process performed by the self-POS terminal according to the first embodiment.

[0073] The bill payout time acquisition unit 63 acquires the payout time required for the payout of the change bills by the bill deposit / withdrawal device 20 (step S40).

[0074] The bill payout time acquisition unit 63 calculates the payout time per bill by dividing the payout time acquired in step S40 by the number of bills paid out (step S41).

[0075] The operation state determination unit 65 determines whether the payout time per bill calculated in step S41 is equal to or greater than the threshold time T2 (step S42). If it is determined that the payout time per bill is equal to or greater than the threshold time T2 (step S42: Yes), the process proceeds to step S43. On the other hand, if it is determined that the payout time per bill is not equal to or greater than the threshold time T2 (step S42: No), the process returns to step S22 in FIG. 4. The threshold time T2 is a time determined based on the payout time per bill acquired in advance when the self-POS terminal 10 is operating normally. That is, the threshold time T2 is an example of a time corresponding to a specific process in the present disclosure.

[0076] When it is determined Yes in step S42, the notification control unit 57 transmits information indicating that confirmation of the bill deposit / withdrawal device 20 is necessary to the store server (step S43). Then, the process returns to step S22 in FIG. 4.

[0077] (Explanation of the flow of the third operation state determination process) Next, with reference to FIG. 7, the flow of the third operation state determination process will be described. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the third operation state determination process performed by the self-POS terminal according to the first embodiment.

[0078] The coin payout time acquisition unit 62 acquires the payout time required for the payout of the change coins by the coin deposit / withdrawal device 21 (step S50).

[0079] The coin payout time acquisition unit 62 calculates the payout time per coin by dividing the payout time acquired in step S50 by the number of coins paid out (step S51).

[0080] The operation state determination unit 65 determines whether the coin payout time per coin calculated in step S51 is equal to or greater than the threshold time T3 (step S52). If it is determined that the coin payout time per coin is equal to or greater than the threshold time T3 (step S52: Yes), the process proceeds to step S53. On the other hand, if it is determined that the coin payout time per coin is not equal to or greater than the threshold time T3 (step S52: No), the process returns to step S24 in FIG. 4. The threshold time T3 is a time determined based on the coin payout time per coin obtained in advance when the self-POS terminal 10 is operating normally. That is, the threshold time T3 is an example of a time corresponding to a specific process in the present disclosure.

[0081] When it is determined as Yes in step S52, the notification control unit 57 transmits information indicating that confirmation of the coin deposit / withdrawal device 21 is necessary to the store server (step S53). Then, the process returns to step S24 in FIG. 4.

[0082] As described above, in the self-POS terminal 10 (information processing device) of the first embodiment, the processing time acquisition unit 60 acquires the processing time required for a specific process, and the operation state determination unit 65 compares the processing time acquired by the processing time acquisition unit 60 with the threshold times T1, T2, and T3 (times corresponding to specific processes) to determine whether there is a sign that an obstacle has occurred in the operation of the self-POS terminal 10. Therefore, it is possible to detect a sign of malfunction while operating the self-POS terminal 10.

[0083] Also, in the self-POS terminal 10 (information processing device) of the first embodiment, the specific process is a process of reading a code symbol attached to a product. Therefore, it is possible to detect a sign of malfunction of the scanner 13 and the hand scanner 14 used for reading the code symbol.

[0084] Also, in the self-POS terminal 10 (information processing device) according to the first embodiment, the specific process is a process of dispensing overpaid banknotes or a process of dispensing overpaid coins. Therefore, it is possible to detect a sign of malfunction in the banknote deposit / withdrawal device 20 or the coin deposit / withdrawal device 21.

[0085] In addition, the administrator of the store server to which a sign of malfunction has been communicated may check the corresponding self-POS terminal 10 each time a report indicating a sign of malfunction is made, or may check whether a report indicating a sign of malfunction has been made at the closing time of the store, and if a report has been made, check the corresponding self-POS terminal 10. Also, at the end of each month, it may be checked whether a report indicating a sign of malfunction has been made, and if a report has been made, the corresponding self-POS terminal 10 may be checked.

[0086] As described above, the case where the present invention is applied to the self-POS terminal 10 has been described. However, the present invention can be similarly applied to a face-to-face POS and a semi-self-POS.

[0087] Also, the specific process is not limited to the above-described process, and for example, it can be applied to a process in which the processing time may become longer due to aging deterioration, such as the reading time of the card reader 18.

[0088] (Second Embodiment) Next, as a second embodiment of the present invention, a self-POS terminal 80 having a function of accumulating the time required for a predetermined process and detecting a sign of malfunction based on the accumulated time will be described.

[0089] (Description of the Hardware Configuration of the Self-POS Terminal) First, with reference to FIG. 8, the hardware configuration of the self-POS terminal 80 according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 8 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the self-POS terminal according to the second embodiment. The self-POS terminal 80 has the same hardware configuration as the self-POS terminal 10 (see FIG. 2) described in the first embodiment, except for the internal configuration of the storage unit 44. Therefore, in the following description, the same hardware configuration elements as those of the self-POS terminal 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0090] Instead of the control program P1 provided in the self-POS terminal 10, the storage unit 44 stores a control program P2. The control program P2 is a program for causing the self-POS terminal 80 to exhibit its functions.

[0091] Also, the storage unit 44 stores a processing time file H. The processing time file H is a file that accumulates the time required for the self-POS terminal 80 to perform a specific process. Note that the time required for a specific process is the reading time for the scanner 13 or the hand scanner 14 to read the code symbol attached to the product, the time for the bill depositing / withdrawing device 20 to withdraw one change bill, and the time for the coin depositing / withdrawing device 21 to withdraw one change coin. The storage unit 44 stores the time required for each process for each specific process.

[0092] (Explanation of the functional configuration of the self-POS terminal) Next, with reference to FIG. 9, the functional configuration of the self-POS terminal according to the second embodiment will be described. FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the self-POS terminal according to the second embodiment.

[0093] The control unit 40 (see FIG. 8) of the self-POS terminal 80 realizes each functional unit shown in FIG. 9 by expanding and operating the control program P2 in the RAM 43. The functional configuration shown in FIG. 9 is obtained by adding a processing time accumulation unit 64 to the functional configuration of the self-POS terminal 10 (see FIG. 3) described in the first embodiment. Therefore, in the following description, the same functional configuration elements as those of the self-POS terminal 10 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0094] The processing time accumulation unit 64 accumulates, for each specific process, the processing time required for the self-POS terminal 80 to perform a specific process, which is acquired by the processing time acquisition unit 60.

[0095] Also, the operation state determination unit 65 determines whether there is a sign of malfunction in the self-POS terminal 80 by comparing the processing time required for a specific process acquired by the processing time acquisition unit 60 with the average time of the processing time for each specific process stored in the processing time accumulation unit 64.

[0096] (Explanation of the flow of processes performed by the self-POS terminal) The flow of processes performed by the self-POS terminal 80 is substantially the same as the flow of processes performed by the self-POS terminal 10 described in the first embodiment (see FIG. 4), and only the processing contents of the first operation state determination process (step S12), the second operation state determination process (step S21), and the third operation state determination process (step S23) shown in FIG. 4 are different.

[0097] That is, in the first embodiment, the self-POS terminal 10 determines whether there is a sign of malfunction in the self-POS terminal 10 by comparing the processing time required for a specific process with a fixed threshold value. However, in the second embodiment, the self-POS terminal 80 determines whether there is a sign of malfunction in the self-POS terminal 80 by comparing the processing time required for a specific process with a time corresponding to the processing time for each specific process accumulated by the processing time accumulation unit 64. Note that the time corresponding to the processing time for each specific process is, for example, the average time for each specific process calculated from the results accumulated by the processing time accumulation unit 64. Details will be described later (see FIGS. 10, 11, and 12).

[0098] (Explanation of the flow of the first operation state determination process) Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the flow of the first operation state determination process performed by the self-POS terminal 80 will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the first state determination process performed by the self-POS terminal of the second embodiment.

[0099] The reading time acquisition unit 61 acquires the reading time of the scanner 13 or the reading time of the hand scanner 14 (step S60).

[0100] The processing time accumulation unit 64 stores the reading time acquired in step S60 in the processing time file H (step S61).

[0101] The operation state determination unit 65 calculates the average time Ta (threshold time) of the reading time of the scanner 13 or the reading time of the hand scanner 14 stored in the processing time file H (step S62).

[0102] The operation state determination unit 65 determines whether the reading time acquired in step S60 is equal to or greater than the average time Ta (step S63). If it is determined that the reading time is equal to or greater than the average time Ta (step S63: Yes), the process proceeds to step S64. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the reading time is equal to or greater than the average time Ta (step S63: No), the process returns to step S13 in FIG. 4.

[0103] When it is determined Yes in step S63, the notification control unit 57 transmits information indicating that confirmation of the scanner 13 or the hand scanner 14 is necessary to the store server (step S64). Then, the process returns to step S13 in FIG. 4.

[0104] Since the scanner 13 and the hand scanner 14 are separate devices, the process in FIG. 10 is executed for the scanner 13 and the hand scanner 14 respectively.

[0105] (Explanation of the flow of the second operation state determination process) Next, with reference to FIG. 11, the flow of the second operation state determination process performed by the self-POS terminal 80 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the second state determination process performed by the self-POS terminal according to the second embodiment.

[0106] The bill dispensing time acquisition unit 63 acquires the dispensing time required for the bill depositing / dispensing device 20 to dispense the change bill (step S70).

[0107] The banknote withdrawal time acquisition unit 63 calculates the withdrawal time per banknote by dividing the withdrawal time acquired in step S70 by the number of banknotes withdrawn (step S71).

[0108] The processing time accumulation unit 64 stores the withdrawal time per banknote calculated in step S71 in the processing time file H (step S72).

[0109] The operation state determination unit 65 calculates the average time Tb (threshold time) of the withdrawal time per banknote stored in the processing time file H (step S73).

[0110] The operation state determination unit 65 determines whether the withdrawal time per banknote calculated in step S71 is equal to or greater than the average time Tb (step S74). If it is determined that the withdrawal time per banknote is equal to or greater than the average time Tb (step S74: Yes), the process proceeds to step S75. On the other hand, if it is determined that the withdrawal time per banknote is not equal to or greater than the average time Tb (step S74: No), the process returns to step S22 in FIG. 4.

[0111] When it is determined Yes in step S74, the notification control unit 57 transmits information indicating that confirmation of the banknote deposit / withdrawal device 20 is required to the store server (step S75). Then, the process returns to step S22 in FIG. 4.

[0112] (Explanation of the flow of the third operation state determination process) Next, with reference to FIG. 12, the flow of the third operation state determination process performed by the self-POS terminal 80 will be described. FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the third state determination process performed by the self-POS terminal according to the second embodiment.

[0113] The coin withdrawal time acquisition unit 62 acquires the withdrawal time required for the coin handling device 21 to withdraw the change coins (step S80).

[0114] The coin payout time acquisition unit 62 calculates the payout time per coin by dividing the payout time acquired in step S80 by the number of coins paid out (step S81).

[0115] The processing time accumulation unit 64 stores the payout time per coin calculated in step S81 in the processing time file H (step S82).

[0116] The operation state determination unit 65 calculates the average time Tc (threshold time) of the payout time per coin stored in the processing time file H (step S83).

[0117] The operation state determination unit 65 determines whether the payout time per coin calculated in step S81 is equal to or greater than the average time Tc (step S84). If it is determined that the payout time per coin is equal to or greater than the average time Tc (step S84: Yes), the process proceeds to step S85. On the other hand, if it is determined that the payout time per coin is not equal to or greater than the average time Tc (step S84: No), the process returns to step S24 in FIG. 4.

[0118] When it is determined Yes in step S84, the notification control unit 57 transmits information indicating that confirmation of the coin deposit / withdrawal device 21 is necessary to the store server (step S85). Then, the process returns to step S24 in FIG. 4.

[0119] In FIGS. 10, 11, and 12, the operation state determination unit 65 calculates the average times Ta, Tb, and Tc by adding the latest processing time acquired by the processing time acquisition unit 60, but this may be the average time before adding the latest processing time.

[0120] As described above, in the self-POS terminal 80 (information processing apparatus) according to the second embodiment, the processing time acquisition unit 60 acquires the processing time required for a specific process, and the operation state determination unit 65 compares the average times Ta, Tb, Tc for each specific process (times corresponding to the processing time for each specific process) accumulated by the processing time accumulation unit 64 with the processing time for each specific process acquired by the processing time acquisition unit 60, thereby determining whether there is a sign that an obstacle has occurred in the operation of the self-POS terminal 80. Therefore, while operating the self-POS terminal 80, it is possible to detect a sign of malfunction.

[0121] Also, in the self-POS terminal 80 (information processing apparatus) according to the second embodiment, the time corresponding to the processing time for each specific process is the average times Ta, Tb, Tc of the processing time for each specific process accumulated by the processing time accumulation unit 64. Therefore, while operating the self-POS terminal 80, it is possible to surely detect a sign of malfunction.

[0122] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been described. However, these embodiments are all 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 and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0123] 10,80... Self-POS terminal (information processing device), 20... Banknote deposit and withdrawal device, 21... Coin deposit and withdrawal device, 50... Code symbol reading unit, 51... Product registration processing unit, 52... Weight comparison unit, 53... Deposit amount calculation unit, 54... Settlement processing unit, 55... Change dispensing unit, 56... Receipt printing unit, 57... Notification control unit, 58... Display control unit, 59... Operation control unit, 60... Processing time acquisition unit, 61... Reading time acquisition unit, 62... Coin dispensing time acquisition unit, 63... Banknote dispensing time acquisition unit, 64... Processing time accumulation unit, 65... Operating state determination unit, F... Sales file, H... Processing time file, M... Product master file, P1, P2... Control programs, T1, T2, T3... Threshold times (times corresponding to specific processes), Ta, Tb, Tc... Average times (threshold times)

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0124]

Patent Document 1

Claims

1. A processing time acquisition unit that acquires the processing time required for a coin changer connected to itself to complete the discharge of coins or banknotes; An operation state determination unit that determines that there is a sign of a malfunction in the operation of the coin changer when the processing time required for discharging one coin or one banknote based on the processing time acquired by the processing time acquisition unit is longer than the processing time required for discharging one coin or one banknote when the coin changer is operating normally; A merchandise sales data processing apparatus comprising the above.

2. A processing time acquisition unit that acquires the processing time required for a coin changer connected to itself to complete the discharge of coins or banknotes; A processing time accumulation unit that accumulates the processing time acquired by the processing time acquisition unit; An operation state determination unit that determines whether there is a sign of a malfunction in the operation of the coin changer by comparing the average time required for discharging one coin or one banknote based on the processing time accumulated by the processing time accumulation unit with the processing time required for discharging one coin or one banknote based on the processing time acquired by the processing time acquisition unit; A merchandise sales data processing apparatus comprising the above.

3. A program for causing a computer to function as a processing time acquisition unit that acquires the processing time required for a coin changer connected to a merchandise sales data processing apparatus to complete the discharge of coins or banknotes; An operation state determination unit that determines that there is a sign of a malfunction in the operation of the coin changer when the processing time required for discharging one coin or one banknote based on the processing time acquired by the processing time acquisition unit is longer than the processing time required for discharging one coin or one banknote when the coin changer is operating normally; as described above.

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