Purchase Support Device, Purchase Support Method, and Program

Abstract

To prevent application of the privilege from being forgotten.SOLUTION: In one embodiment, a purchase support device includes: a detection part; and an output part. The detection part detects the accounting instruction. When the privilege is applicable on the basis of the privilege information, the output part outputs the notification prompting for input as to whether or not the privilege is utilized in response that the accounting instruction is detected by the detection part. The detection part detects the input as to whether or not the privilege is utilized. The output part outputs the notification indicating the calling of a clerk in response that the input indicating that the existence of the privilege utilization is detected by the detection part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 5

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to a purchase support device, a purchase support method, and a program.

Background Art

[0002] In a purchase support device such as a POS (Point Of Sales) terminal or an electronic cash register, usually, a store clerk called a cashier is in charge of the operation, and the store clerk applies privilege information such as a privilege system, a coupon, and a discount coupon.

[0003] On the other hand, there is a purchase support device for a self-checkout system in which a customer performs operations from registration of purchased goods to settlement by himself / herself, that is, a so-called self-checkout device. Since the self-checkout device is operated by the customer himself / herself, there is no operator. For this reason, in the self-checkout device, there is no means for prompting the customer to use the privilege on the privilege application date such as a privilege system, a coupon, and a discount coupon.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to prevent forgetting to apply privileges.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] In one embodiment, the purchase support device includes a detection unit and an output unit. The detection unit detects a settlement instruction. The output unit outputs a notification prompting an input of whether a privilege is used when the privilege is applicable based on privilege information in response to the detection unit detecting the settlement instruction. The detection unit detects an input of whether a privilege is used. The output unit outputs a notification indicating a call to a store clerk in response to the detection unit detecting an input indicating that a privilege is used.

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

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0008] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the present embodiment, as an aspect of the purchase support device, a self-POS terminal is exemplified. The self-POS terminal functions as a purchase support device of a self-checkout system in which a customer performs operations from registration of purchased goods to settlement by himself / herself, that is, a so-called self-checkout device.

[0009] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the self-checkout system according to the embodiment. The self-checkout system 10 includes a plurality of self-POS terminals 20, an attendant terminal 30, and a store server 40. The self-checkout system 10 also includes a network 50, and each self-POS terminal 20, attendant terminal 30, and store server 40 are connected to this network 50 to construct a system. The network 50 is typically a LAN (Local Area Network). The LAN may be wired or wireless.

[0010] The self-POS terminal 20 is installed at the checkout area of the store. The self-POS terminal 20 is a purchase support device that enables a customer who purchases goods to perform a series of processes from registration of purchased goods to settlement by operation. Therefore, an operation guide showing the operation procedure is displayed on the self-POS terminal 20 for the customer who is the operator. Details of the self-POS terminal 20 will be described later.

[0011] The attendant terminal 30 is installed, for example, near the exit of the cashier area. The attendant terminal 30 has a function of monitoring the states of a plurality of self-POS terminals 20. That is, the attendant terminal 30 receives, via the network 50, various types of information transmitted and output by the self-POS terminal 20 to be monitored, such as information indicating the operating status and the processing results of product sales information, and displays the content on a display. The product sales information includes, for example, the product ID, unit price, sales quantity, and sales amount of the purchased products registered by a customer via the self-POS terminal 20.

[0012] The number of self-POS terminals 20 to be monitored by one attendant terminal 30 is arbitrary. Therefore, in FIG. 1, only one attendant terminal 30 is shown, but two or more attendant terminals 30 may be connected to the network 50. Usually, a store clerk serving as a guide waits at the location where the attendant terminal 30 is installed. The store clerk deals with troubles such as errors occurring in the self-POS terminal 20 to be monitored based on the display content of the display.

[0013] The store server 40 controls the processes related to the registration and settlement of purchased products executed by each self-POS terminal 20. The store server 40 also collects the data processed by each self-POS terminal 20 via the network 50, appropriately processes it, and saves it in a data file.

[0014] In addition, in FIG. 1, only the self-POS terminal 20 is shown as a purchase support device connected to the network 50. However, a purchase support device in which a store clerk performs operations from the registration to the settlement of purchased products, that is, a so-called POS terminal, may be connected to the network 50. In that case, the store server 40 controls each POS terminal as well in the same manner as the self-POS terminal 20.

[0015] Next, the details of the self-POS terminal 20 will be described. FIG. 2 is an external perspective view of a self-POS terminal included in the self-checkout system according to the embodiment.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 2, the self-POS terminal 20 includes a main body 200 installed on the floor surface and a weighing unit 201 installed beside the main body 200.

[0017] The main body 200 has a display pole 202 and a touch panel 203 attached to its upper part, and a basket stand 204 protrudes on the side opposite to the side where the weighing unit 201 is installed. The basket stand 204 is for placing a basket or the like in which a customer puts purchased goods. The customer stands in front of the main body 200 in FIG. 2 to perform operations so that the screen of the touch panel 203 can be seen. Therefore, from the perspective of the customer, the basket stand 204 is on the right side of the main body 200, and the weighing unit 201 is on the left side. Hereinafter, the side where the customer stands is defined as the front of the main body 200.

[0018] The display pole 202 is provided with a light-emitting part 2021 at its tip for selectively emitting, for example, blue and red light, and the current state of the self-POS terminal 20 is notified to, for example, a store clerk who is a guide, etc. according to the emission color of the light-emitting part 2021.

[0019] The touch panel 203 is composed of a display for displaying various screens including operation guides to the operator (usually a customer) of the self-POS terminal 20, and a touch sensor for detecting touch input to the screen by the operator. Here, the screen means an image displayed on the display. The display method of the screen may be any method including pop-up display. The display of the touch panel 203 is an example of a display unit. The touch sensor of the touch panel 203 is an example of an input unit.

[0020] The main body 200 forms a reading window 2051 of a scanner 205, a card insertion slot 206, and a receipt issuing port 207 at the upper part of the front. The main body 200 also forms a coin insertion slot 208, a coin payout port 209, a bill insertion slot 210, and a bill payout port 211 at the central part of the front. Further, the main body 200 is connected to a reader / writer 213 for electronic money via a communication cable 212. The reader / writer 213 is placed on a mounting table 214 provided on the same side as the basket stand 204 of the main body 200.

[0021] The weighing unit 201 has a structure in which a weighing pan 222 is provided on the upper part of a housing 221, and a bag holder 223 is attached above the weighing pan 222. The upper surface of the weighing pan 222 serves as a placement surface 2221. The bag holder 223 includes a pair of holding arms 2231, and the holding arms 2231 hold a cash register bag or a so-called my bag that a customer brings in. The weighing unit 201 measures the weight of the merchandise placed on the placement surface 2221 and contained in the cash register bag or my bag held by the holding arms 2231.

[0022] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the self-POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in FIG. 3, the self-POS terminal 20 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 231, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 232, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 233, an auxiliary storage device 234, a communication interface 235, a coin dispenser 236, a scanner 205, a touch panel 203, a printer 237, a card reader 238, a reader / writer 213, a light emitting unit 2021, a weighing unit 201, and a system transmission path 239. The system transmission path 239 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, and the like. The system transmission path 239 connects the CPU 231 to the other units directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged therebetween.

[0023] The self-POS terminal 20 constitutes a computer by connecting the CPU 231, the ROM 232, the RAM 233, and the auxiliary storage device 234 with the system transmission path 239.

[0024] The CPU 231 corresponds to the central part of the above computer. The CPU 231 controls each part in order to realize various functions as the self-POS terminal 20 according to the operating system and application programs. The CPU 231 may be composed of various circuits. The CPU 231 expands a control program stored in advance in the ROM 232 or the auxiliary storage device 234 to the RAM 233. The control program is a program that causes the CPU 231 of the self-POS terminal 20 to realize each part described later. The CPU 231 executes various operations by executing the control program expanded in the RAM 233.

[0025] The ROM 232 corresponds to the main memory part of the above computer. The ROM 232 stores the above operating system and application programs. The application program includes the control program. The ROM 232 may also store data necessary for the CPU 231 to execute processes for controlling each part.

[0026] The RAM 233 corresponds to the main memory part of the above computer. The RAM 233 stores data necessary for the CPU 231 to execute processes. The RAM 233 is also used as a work area where information is appropriately rewritten by the CPU 231.

[0027] The auxiliary storage device 234 corresponds to the auxiliary storage part of the above computer. For example, an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), etc. are used as the auxiliary storage device 234. The auxiliary storage device 234 stores data used by the CPU 231 to perform various processes and data generated by the processes in the CPU 231. The auxiliary storage device 234 may also store the above-described control program.

[0028] The communication interface 235 performs data communication with the store server 40 or the attendant terminal 30 connected to the network 50 according to a preset communication protocol. In FIG. 3, the interface is described as "I / F".

[0029] The automatic change dispenser 236 includes a coin unit 2361 and a bill unit 2362. The coin unit 2361 sorts the coins inserted into the coin insertion slot 208 one by one to identify the denominations, and stores them in a coin vault (not shown) by denomination. Also, the coin unit 2361 takes out the corresponding denomination coins from the coin vault based on, for example, the change data, and pays them out at the coin payout opening 209. The bill unit 2362 sorts the bills inserted into the bill insertion slot 210 one by one to identify the denominations, and stores them in a bill vault (not shown) by denomination. Also, the bill unit 2362 takes out the corresponding denomination bills from the bill vault based on, for example, the change data, and pays them out at the bill payout opening 211.

[0030] Scanner 205 scans and reads the barcode of a product obscured by the reading window 2051. Each product sold in the store is attached with a barcode symbol in which the product ID for identifying the product is barcoded. Every time the barcode symbol attached to the product is obscured by the reading window 2051, scanner 205 reads that barcode. Also, scanner 205 scans and reads the privilege barcode attached to a coupon, discount coupon, etc. obscured by the reading window 2051. Although the privilege barcode is described as a printed matter attached to the medium of a coupon or discount coupon, it may also be an image displayed on a terminal such as a smartphone. To the privileges such as coupons and discount coupons, a barcode symbol in which the privilege ID for identifying the privilege is barcoded is attached. The privilege barcode corresponds to the privilege code. Also, scanner 205 scans and reads the staff code obscured by the reading window 2051. To each staff member, a barcode symbol in which the staff ID for identifying the staff member is barcoded is attached. Here, the barcode may be read as a two-dimensional data code. Scanner 205 may be of a type that reads the code symbol by scanning a laser beam. Scanner 205 may be of a type that reads the code symbol from an image captured by an imaging device such as a camera. Scanner 205 is an example of a reading unit.

[0031] Printer 237 prints receipt data representing details of a commercial transaction, for example, on receipt paper. The receipt paper on which the receipt data is printed is discharged from the receipt issuing port 207 and cut by a cutter (not shown) to be issued as a receipt.

[0032] Card reader 238 reads the card data recorded on a card medium such as a credit card or a point card. Card reader 238 pulls the card medium inserted into the card insertion slot 206 into the main body 200, reads the card data, and then discharges it from the card insertion slot 206.

[0033] Reader / writer 213 reads and rewrites the electronic money recorded on a contactless IC card.

[0034] Note that the hardware configuration of the self-POS terminal 20 is not limited to the above configuration. The self-POS terminal 20 can appropriately omit and modify the above-described components and add new components.

[0035] Each part implemented in the above-described CPU 231 will be described.

[0036] The CPU 231 implements an acquisition unit 2311, a registration unit 2312, a detection unit 2313, a determination unit 2314, an output unit 2315, a reflection unit 2316, and a settlement processing unit 2317. Each part implemented in the CPU 231 can also be referred to as each function. Each part implemented in the CPU 231 can also be said to be implemented in a control unit including the CPU 231, the ROM 232, and the RAM 233.

[0037] The acquisition unit 2311 acquires data of various codes. Although various codes are described as being read by the scanner 205, they may also be input by the touch panel 203. Hereinafter, "read by the scanner 205" may be read as "read by the scanner 205 or input by the touch panel 203". The acquisition unit 2311 acquires various information based on the acquired data. In one example, the acquisition unit 2311 acquires a store employee code read by the scanner 205 and acquires store employee information associated with the store employee code. The acquisition of the store employee code by the acquisition unit 2311 corresponds to the reading of the store employee code by the scanner 205. The acquisition of the store employee code corresponds to the reading or input of the store employee code. The store employee information is various information associated with the store employee code and includes information such as the validity of the store employee code and the name of the store employee. The database in which the store employee code and the store employee information are associated may be pre-stored in the auxiliary storage device 234 or may be downloaded from the store server 40 or a server (not shown) to the self-POS terminal 20 via the network 50. The above database may be updated as appropriate.

[0038] The registration unit 2312 registers various information based on the data read by the scanner 205. For example, when the barcode of a product is read by the scanner 205, the registration unit 2312 registers the product sales information of that product. The product sales information is various information associated with the product ID. The product sales information may be stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 234, or may be downloaded from the store server 40 or a server (not shown) to the self-POS terminal 20 via the network 50. The above database may be updated as appropriate.

[0039] The detection unit 2313 detects a touch input to the screen by the operator on the touch panel 203. The touch input is realized by the operator touching the screen according to various operation guides displayed on the touch panel 203. The screen on which the operation guide is displayed includes buttons for specifying operations. The operator specifies an operation by touching the displayed button. The touch input is an example of an input. Note that the operation guide corresponds to a notification.

[0040] The determination unit 2314 determines whether a privilege is applicable based on the privilege information. The privilege information includes application information indicating the application date, application day of the week, application time zone, etc. of the privilege, privilege target information indicating the target products, target amounts, etc. of the privilege, and privilege detail information indicating the discount amount, discount rate, number of points to be awarded, point awarding rate, etc. by the privilege. The application information and the privilege target information may be read as the application conditions and the privilege target conditions, respectively. The application conditions are temporal conditions. The determination unit 2314 determines whether a privilege is applicable based on at least one of the application information, the privilege target information, and the privilege detail information in the privilege information. Here, the privilege includes a privilege card for applying various preferential systems issued by administrative organs such as local governments, and discount coupons, vouchers, etc. issued by stores. The privilege information may be stored in advance in the auxiliary storage device 234, or may be downloaded from the store server 40 or a server (not shown) to the self-POS terminal 20 via the network 50. The above database may be updated as appropriate.

[0041] The output unit 2315 outputs various operation guides.

[0042] In response to the detection by the detection unit 2313 that an input for confirming a notice regarding privilege utilization has been detected, the privilege information reflecting unit 2316 validates the privilege information. Validating the privilege information corresponds to enabling the privilege.

[0043] The settlement processing unit 2317 executes settlement processing. For example, the settlement processing unit 2317 executes settlement processing according to the selection of the payment method by the customer described later.

[0044] Although the detection unit 2313 and the output unit 2315 have been described as being implemented in the CPU 231 by executing a program, they are not limited to this. The detection unit 2313 and the output unit 2315 may be realized by the touch panel 203. The detection unit 2313 and the output unit 2315 may also be realized by the cooperation of the CPU 231 and the touch panel 203 by executing a program.

[0045] Next, an example of the screen displayed on the touch panel 203 will be described.

[0046] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a product registration screen displayed on the touch panel 203 of the self-POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in the figure, on the product registration screen SCa, an operation guide Ga for prompting the customer to perform a product registration operation is displayed. Also, on the product registration screen SCa, a details column Da for displaying the details of the registered products and a total column Db for displaying the total of the registered products are displayed. Further, on the product registration screen SCa, a department button Bb for the customer to specify the department of products without barcodes and a "checkout" button Ba for the customer to specify the transition to settlement processing are displayed. The operation guide Ga may represent the operation guide Ga as a video by using video data. Alternatively, the operation guide Ga may be output as audio by using audio data.

[0047] First, the customer registers the purchased items according to the product registration screen SCa. The customer who has confirmed the product registration screen SCa takes out the items one by one from the basket placed on the basket stand 204. Then, if the purchased item has a barcode attached, the customer holds the barcode part over the reading window 2051. Then, the barcode is read by the scanner 205 and the purchased item is registered, so the customer puts the purchased item into the my bag or the register bag held by the bag holder 223. If the purchased item does not have a barcode attached, the customer touches the corresponding department button Bb. Then, a group of buttons for barcode-less items belonging to that department are displayed on the touch panel 203, so the customer searches for the button for the purchased item from among the group of buttons and touches that button. Thus, the purchased item is registered, so the customer puts the purchased item into the my bag or the register bag held by the bag holder 223. After all the purchased items have been registered in this way, the customer touches the "Checkout" button Ba.

[0048] FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a screen for selecting whether or not to use a privilege, which is displayed on the touch panel 203 of the self-POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in the figure, on the privilege use selection screen SCb, an operation guide Gb for prompting the customer to perform a designation operation on whether to use privileges such as a privilege card, a discount coupon, a coupon, etc. is displayed. The operation guide Gb corresponds to a notification for prompting the input of whether or not to use a privilege. Also, a "Yes" button Bc for the customer to designate using a privilege and a "No" button Bd for the customer to designate not using a privilege are displayed. Note that the operation guide Gb may be represented as a video by using video data. Alternatively, the operation guide Gb may be output as audio by using audio data.

[0049] After the customer touches the "Accounting" button Ba, a privilege utilization selection screen SCb is displayed on the touch panel 203. The privilege utilization selection screen SCb is displayed when the privilege code has not been read before the "Accounting" button Ba is touched. A customer who has confirmed the privilege utilization selection screen SCb touches the "Yes" button Bc if they want to use privileges such as a privilege card, discount coupon, or coupon, and touches the "No" button Bd if they do not want to use the privilege.

[0050] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a staff call screen displayed on the touch panel 203 of the self-POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in the drawing, on the staff call screen SCc, an operation guide Gc indicating to the customer that the staff is being called is displayed. The operation guide Gc corresponds to a notification indicating the call of the staff. The operation guide Gc may include an operation guide for prompting the staff to read the staff code. After confirming the staff call screen SCc, it is assumed that the staff obscures the staff code in the staff code reading window 2051. Then, the staff code is read by the scanner 205. Note that the operation guide Gc may be represented as a video by using video data. Alternatively, the operation guide Gc may be output as audio by using audio data.

[0051] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a screen indicating the availability of privilege utilization on the touch panel 203 of the self-POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in the drawing, on the privilege utilization confirmation screen SCd, an operation guide Gd indicating to the staff that the customer is using a privilege is displayed. The operation guide Gd corresponds to a notification regarding privilege utilization. The operation guide Gd may include an operation guide for prompting the staff to operate in the POS mode. Also, a "Confirmation" button Be is displayed on the privilege utilization confirmation screen SCd. The staff who has confirmed the privilege utilization confirmation screen SCd touches the "Confirmation" button Be. Note that the operation guide Gd may be represented as a video by using video data. Alternatively, the operation guide Gd may be output as audio by using audio data.

[0052] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a discount application screen displayed on the touch panel 203 of the self-POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in the figure, on the discount application screen SCe, an operation guide Ge for indicating to the customer that a privilege has been applied is displayed. In this example, it is assumed that a discount is applied to the total amount according to the privilege information. Also, on the discount application screen SCe, a total column Dc for displaying the subtotal amount, the discount amount, and the total amount of the purchased goods is displayed. Further, on the discount application screen SCe, a "confirmation" button Bf is displayed. A customer who has checked the discount application screen SCe touches the "confirmation" button Bf. Note that the operation guide Ge may be represented as a video by using video data. Alternatively, the operation guide Ge may be output as audio by using audio data.

[0053] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a non-target notification screen displayed on the touch panel 203 of the self-POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in the figure, on the non-target notification screen SCf, an operation guide Gf for indicating to the customer that the total amount or the purchased goods are not subject to the privilege application is displayed. In this example, it is shown that the total amount or the purchased goods are not subject to the privilege application according to the privilege information. Also, on the non-target notification screen SCf, a "confirmation" button Bg is displayed. A customer who has checked the non-target notification screen SCf touches the "confirmation" button Bg. Note that the operation guide Gf may be represented as a video by using video data. Alternatively, the operation guide Gf may be output as audio by using audio data.

[0054] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a settlement screen displayed on the touch panel 203 of the self-POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment. As shown in the figure, on the payment screen SCg, an operation guide Gg for prompting the customer to perform a payment operation is displayed. The payment screen SCg is an example of a payment display. Also, on the payment screen SCg, a total column Dd for displaying the total amount of the purchased items is shown. Furthermore, on the payment screen SCg, a "Cash" button Bh for the customer to specify payment in cash, a "Credit" button Bi for the customer to specify payment by credit card, and an "Electronic Money" button Bj for the customer to specify payment by electronic money are displayed. Note that by using video data, the operation guide Gg may be represented as a video. Alternatively, by using audio data, the operation guide Gg may be output as audio.

[0055] The customer who has confirmed the payment screen SCg selects a payment method according to the operation guide Gg and touches the corresponding button. That is, the customer who pays in cash touches the "Cash" button Bh and puts cash into the bill insertion slot 210 or the coin insertion slot 208. Then, at the self-POS terminal 20, the deposited amount is calculated, and when it exceeds the total amount, the payment process is executed. When the change amount is calculated in this payment process, the cash as change is paid out from the bill payout slot 211 or the coin payout slot 209.

[0056] On the other hand, the customer who pays by credit card touches the "Credit" button Bi and inserts the credit card into the card insertion slot 206. Then, at the self-POS terminal 20, the data of the credit card is read by the card reader 238, and the authentication of the credit card is performed. And when the credit card is authenticated, the payment process is executed.

[0057] Also, the customer who pays by electronic money touches the "Electronic Money" button Bj and brings the contactless IC card in which the electronic money is recorded close to the reader / writer 213. Then, at the self-POS terminal 20, the remaining balance of the electronic money is read by the reader / writer 213, and when the remaining balance is equal to or more than the total amount, the payment process is executed. In this payment process, the remaining balance of the electronic money is reduced by the amount of the total amount.

[0058] Next, the procedure of the purchase support process by the self-POS terminal 20 will be described. FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of the purchase support process by the self-POS terminal 20 according to the embodiment.

[0059] Note that the processing procedures described below are merely examples, and each process may be changed as much as possible. Also, regarding the processing procedures described below, depending on the embodiment, steps may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate. Note that the operator may be read as a customer, a store clerk, or a person. Also, unless otherwise specified, the operation on the self-POS terminal 20 is an operation in the self mode. The operator in the self mode is usually a customer, but may be other operators such as a store clerk.

[0060] First, a customer who has come to the cashier for checkout stands in front of the empty self-POS terminal 20 and places the basket containing the purchased goods on the basket stand 204. On the other hand, the self-POS terminal 20 is provided with a human sensor (not shown), and when the customer stands in front of the main body 200, the purchase support process of the procedure shown in the flowchart of FIG. 11 is started. Note that the timing for starting the purchase support process is not limited to this. For example, a sensor for detecting that a basket has been placed on the basket stand 204 may be provided, and when the basket is detected by this sensor, the purchase support process may be started. Alternatively, after the process for the previous customer is completed, the purchase support process may be automatically started when a certain period of time has elapsed.

[0061] When the purchase support process is started, the product registration screen SCa (see FIG. 4) is displayed on the touch panel 203 by the output unit 2315. The customer operates according to the product registration screen SCa.

[0062] The registration unit 2312 registers various information based on the data read by the scanner 205 (ACT1). In ACT1, for example, the acquisition unit 2311 acquires the barcode of the purchased item read by the scanner 205 in response to the barcode of the purchased item being read by the scanner 205. Hereinafter, "in response to" may be read as "based on". The registration unit 2312 registers the purchased item based on the barcode of the purchased item acquired by the acquisition unit 2311. When the button for an item without a barcode is touched, the registration unit 2312 detects a signal from the touch panel 203 and registers the purchased item. Next, the output unit 2315 displays the item name, sales count, and sales amount of the purchased item in the details column Da of the item registration screen SCa. Also, the settlement processing unit 2317 calculates the total count and total amount at the current time based on the item sales information stored in the auxiliary storage device 234 and displays them in the total column Db of the item registration screen SCa. Since such item registration processing is well-known processing, the details thereof are omitted.

[0063] The detection unit 2313 detects an accounting instruction (ACT2). In ACT2, for example, the detection unit 2313 detects a touch input of the "Accounting" button Ba by the customer on the item registration screen SCa (see FIG. 4). For example, the detection unit 2313 detects that the "Accounting" button Ba has been touched by a signal from the touch panel 203.

[0064] The determination unit 2314 determines whether a privilege is applicable based on privilege information in response to the accounting instruction being detected by the detection unit 2313 (ACT3). In ACT3, for example, the determination unit 2314 determines whether a privilege is applicable based on at least one of the application information, privilege target information, and privilege details information among the privilege information stored in the auxiliary storage device 234. For example, the determination unit 2314 determines, based on the application information, whether the date and time when the accounting instruction is detected by the detection unit 2313 is a date and time when a privilege is applicable.

[0065] For example, assume that it is set in the application information that Friday is a privilege - applicable day. In this case, the determination unit 2314 determines whether the day when the accounting instruction is detected from the date - time information indicating the date - time when the accounting instruction is detected by the detection unit 2313 is Friday. When the day when the accounting instruction is detected is Friday, the determination unit 2314 determines that the privilege is applicable. The information set in the application information is not limited to the day of the week, and may also be a specific date (for example, the 10th, 20th, etc.), a specific time period (for example, "until 4:00 p.m.", etc.). Also, when a day of the week or a date is set in the application information, a flag indicating that the privilege is applicable may be set in advance in the auxiliary storage device 234. For example, the flag for an applicable day is set to "1", and the flag for a non - applicable day is set to "0". The flag may be automatically set or reset according to the time information of the self - service POS terminal 20, or may be set or reset by a manual operation of a store clerk. The information of the flag is included in the application information. In this case, when the flag is set to "1", the determination unit 2314 determines that the privilege is applicable. On the other hand, when the flag is set to "0", the determination unit 2314 determines that the privilege is not applicable.

[0066] When it is determined by the determination unit 2314 that the privilege is applicable (ACT3: YES), the process transitions from ACT3 to ACT4. The fact that it is determined by the determination unit 2314 that the privilege is applicable is an example of the privilege being applicable. When it is determined by the determination unit 2314 that the privilege is not applicable (ACT3: NO), the process transitions from ACT3 to ACT10. The fact that it is determined by the determination unit 2314 that the privilege is not applicable is an example of the privilege not being applicable.

[0067] In response to the determination by the determination unit 2314 that the privilege is applicable, the output unit 2315 outputs a notification prompting an input on the presence or absence of privilege utilization (ACT4). In ACT4, for example, the output unit 2315 causes the privilege utilization selection screen SCb (see FIG. 5) to be displayed on the touch panel 203.

[0068] The detection unit 2313 detects the input of whether or not to use the privilege (ACT5). In ACT5, for example, the detection unit 2313 detects the touch input of the "Yes" button Bc or the "No" button Bd by the customer on the privilege use selection screen SCb. For example, the detection unit 2313 detects that the "Yes" button Bc or the "No" button Bd has been touched based on a signal from the touch panel 203. The customer touches the "Yes" button Bc to input that there is privilege use, and touches the "No" button Bd to input that there is no privilege use.

[0069] According to this example, the self-POS terminal 20 can confirm with the customer whether or not to use the privilege before performing the settlement process. Therefore, the self-POS terminal 20 can prevent the customer from forgetting to use the privilege. In addition, since the privilege can be applied before the settlement process, the self-POS terminal 20 can simplify the settlement process compared to the case where the privilege is applied after the settlement process. Furthermore, since the self-POS terminal 20 outputs a notification only when the privilege application is possible, the process of outputting the notification can be reduced. It can effectively alert the customer regarding the use of the privilege.

[0070] When the touch input of the "Yes" button Bc is detected by the detection unit 2313 (ACT5: YES), the process transitions from ACT5 to ACT6. The detection by the detection unit 2313 that the "Yes" button Bc has been touched is an example of the "Yes" button Bc being touched. When the touch input of the "No" button Bd is detected by the detection unit 2313 (ACT5: NO), the process transitions from ACT5 to ACT10. The detection by the detection unit 2313 that the "No" button Bd has been touched is an example of the "No" button Bd being touched.

[0071] In response to the detection by the detection unit 2313 of an input indicating the use of a privilege, the output unit 2315 outputs a notification indicating the call of a store clerk (ACT6). In ACT6, for example, the output unit 2315 causes the store clerk call screen SCc (see FIG. 6) to be displayed on the touch panel 203. Further, the output unit 2315 may cause the light emitting unit 2021 of the display pole 202 to emit light to notify the store clerk of the call. When the store clerk who has received the call checks the store clerk call screen SCc, the store clerk code is held over the code reading window 2051, and the store clerk code is read by the scanner 205.

[0072] The acquisition unit 2311 acquires store clerk information based on the acquired store clerk code (ACT7). In ACT7, for example, the acquisition unit 2311 acquires the store clerk code read by the scanner 205 after the output unit 2315 outputs a notification indicating the call of a store clerk. The acquisition unit 2311 acquires the store clerk information associated with the store clerk code from the auxiliary storage device 234 based on the acquired store clerk code.

[0073] In response to the acquisition of store clerk information by the acquisition unit 2311, the output unit 2315 outputs a notification regarding the use of a privilege (ACT8). The acquisition of store clerk information by the acquisition unit 2311 is an example of the acquisition of a store clerk code by the acquisition unit 2311. In ACT8, for example, the output unit 2315 causes the privilege use confirmation screen SCd (see FIG. 7) to be displayed on the touch panel 203. In ACT8, for example, the detection unit 2313 detects an input for confirmation regarding the notification regarding the use of a privilege by the store clerk on the privilege use confirmation screen SCd. For example, the detection unit 2313 detects a touch input to the "confirmation" button Be. For example, the detection unit 2313 detects that the "confirmation" button Be has been touched based on a signal from the touch panel 203. When the detection unit 2313 detects a touch input to the "confirmation" button Be (ACT8: YES), the process transitions from ACT8 to ACT9. When the detection unit 2313 does not detect a touch input to the "confirmation" button Be (ACT8: NO), the process transitions from ACT8 to ACT10.

[0074] According to this example, in response to acquiring the store employee information, the self-POS terminal 20 can output a notice regarding the use of the privilege. Thereby, the self-POS terminal 20 can notify the store employee of the reason for the call. The store employee can respond without asking the customer the reason for the call.

[0075] In response to the detection of the confirmation input by the detection unit 2313, the reflection unit 2316 enables the privilege information (ACT9). In one example, the reflection unit 2316 compares the total amount calculated by the settlement processing unit 2317 with the privilege target information stored in the auxiliary storage device 234. Next, the reflection unit 2316 determines whether the total amount satisfies the privilege target condition. When the total amount satisfies the privilege target condition, the reflection unit 2316 applies the discount amount or discount rate indicated by the privilege detail information to the total amount. In another example, the reflection unit 2316 compares the purchased goods registered by the registration unit 2312 with the privilege target information stored in the auxiliary storage device 234. Next, the reflection unit 2316 determines whether the purchased goods satisfy the privilege target condition. When the purchased goods satisfy the privilege target condition, the reflection unit 2316 applies the discount amount or discount rate indicated by the privilege detail information to the total amount. Note that the reflection unit 2316 may reflect the point awarding according to the point awarding rate indicated by the privilege detail information with respect to the total amount of the purchased goods. Since the processing of point awarding is a well-known process, the details thereof are omitted.

[0076] According to this example, in response to detecting the confirmation input, the self-POS terminal 20 can enable the privilege information. Thereby, the store employee can enable the privilege information without requiring complicated operations.

[0077] When the reflection unit 2316 determines that the total amount or the purchased goods do not meet the privilege target conditions, the output unit 2315 outputs an invalid notice indicating that the privilege is invalid. For example, the output unit 2315 causes the non-target notice screen SCf (see FIG. 9) to be displayed on the touch panel 203. For example, the detection unit 2313 detects an input for confirming the invalid notice by the store clerk on the non-target notice screen SCf. For example, the detection unit 2313 detects a touch input of the "Confirm" button Bg. For example, the detection unit 2313 detects that the "Confirm" button Bg has been touched based on a signal from the touch panel 203. When the detection unit 2313 detects a touch input of the "Confirm" button Bg, the process transitions from ACT9 to ACT10.

[0078] According to this example, since the privilege reflection process is performed by the operation of the store clerk, the self-POS terminal 20 can prevent unauthorized use of the privilege. Also, for privileges without a privilege code or the like, the store clerk can visually confirm the validity and perform the privilege reflection process.

[0079] The settlement processing unit 2317 executes settlement processing (ACT10). In ACT10, for example, the output unit 2315 causes the settlement screen SCg (see FIG. 10) to be displayed on the touch panel 203. The output unit 2315 causes the amount reflecting the privilege detailed information to be displayed in the total column Dd of the settlement screen SCg. When the detection unit 2313 detects that the "Cash" button Bh has been touched based on a signal from the touch panel 203, the settlement processing unit 2317 executes settlement processing by cash payment. Similarly, when the detection unit 2313 detects that the "Credit" button Bi has been touched, the settlement processing unit 2317 executes settlement processing by credit card payment. Also, when the detection unit 2313 detects that the "Electronic Money" button Bj has been touched, the settlement processing unit 2317 executes settlement processing by electronic money. In this settlement processing, settlement information including the total amount, payment method, payment amount, etc. is stored in the auxiliary storage device 234. Since such settlement processing is well-known processing, the details thereof are omitted.

[0080] When the settlement process is completed, the output unit 2315 causes the touch panel 203 to display a settlement completion screen (not shown).

[0081] In the above-described embodiment, the determination unit 2314 has been described as determining whether a privilege is applicable based on the application information, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the determination unit 2314 may determine whether a privilege is applicable based on privilege target information in addition to or instead of the application information. In this case, the determination unit 2314 compares the total amount calculated by the settlement processing unit 2317 with the privilege target information stored in the auxiliary storage device 234. Next, the determination unit 2314 determines whether the total amount satisfies the privilege target conditions. The determination unit 2314 determines that the privilege is applicable when the total amount satisfies the privilege target conditions. In another example, the determination unit 2314 compares the purchased goods registered by the registration unit 2312 with the privilege target information stored in the auxiliary storage device 234. Next, the determination unit 2314 determines whether the purchased goods satisfy the privilege target conditions. The determination unit 2314 determines that the privilege is applicable when the purchased goods satisfy the privilege target conditions. According to this example, the self-POS terminal 20 can determine whether a privilege can be applied according to the total amount or the purchased goods. The self-POS terminal 20 does not need to call a store clerk when the total amount or the purchased goods are not subject to privilege application. Therefore, the self-POS terminal 20 can reduce the process of calling a store clerk.

[0082] In the above-described embodiment, the self-POS terminal 20 has been exemplified, but at least a part of the functions of the self-POS terminal 20 of this embodiment may be realized in a POS terminal in which a store clerk performs operations from registration of purchased goods to settlement. Also, at least a part of the functions of the self-POS terminal 20 of this embodiment may be realized in a so-called semi-self type settlement device (cash register) in which a store clerk registers purchased goods and a customer performs settlement. Further, at least a part of the functions of the self-POS terminal 20 of this embodiment may be realized in a so-called cart POS terminal in which a merchandise scanner and a dedicated terminal operated by a customer are attached to a cart, or a so-called smartphone POS terminal in which merchandise registration is performed using a terminal such as a tablet or a smartphone.

[0083] Note that the purchase support device may be implemented by a single device as described by taking the self-POS terminal 20 as an example, or may be implemented by a system in which functions are distributed among a plurality of devices.

[0084] Note that the transfer of the purchase support device is generally performed with the program stored in the main memory or the auxiliary storage device. However, it is not limited to this, and the transfer may be performed with the program not stored in the main memory or the auxiliary storage device. And in this case, the program transferred separately from this purchase support device is written into the writable storage device provided in the purchase support device according to the operation of the user or the like. The transfer of the program can be performed by recording it on a removable recording medium or by communication via a network. The recording medium may be in any form as long as it can store the program and can be read by the device, such as a CD-ROM, a memory card, or the like. Also, the functions obtained by installing or downloading the program may be those that cooperate with the OS (operating system) or the like inside the device to realize the functions.

[0085] In addition, although some 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 and gist of the invention, and are included in the invention described in the claims and the equivalent scope thereof. The description of the original claims is appended below. [C1] A detection unit that detects an accounting instruction; An output unit that outputs a notification prompting an input of whether or not a privilege is used when the privilege is applicable based on privilege information in response to the detection of the accounting instruction by the detection unit; Comprising: The detection unit detects an input of whether or not a privilege is used; The output unit outputs a notification indicating a call to a store clerk in response to the detection of an input indicating that there is a use of a privilege by the detection unit. Purchase support device. [C2] Further comprising an acquisition unit that acquires a store clerk code; The output unit outputs a notification regarding the use of a privilege in response to the acquisition of a store clerk code by the acquisition unit. The purchase support device according to [C1]. [C3] The detection unit detects an input of confirmation regarding the notification regarding the use of a privilege; In response to the detection of the input of confirmation by the detection unit, further comprising a reflection unit that validates the privilege information. The purchase support device according to [C2]. [C4] Detecting an accounting instruction; In response to the detection of the accounting instruction, when the privilege is applicable based on the privilege information, outputting a notification prompting an input of whether or not a privilege is used; Detecting an input of whether or not a privilege is used; In response to the detection of an input indicating that there is a use of a privilege, outputting a notification indicating a call to a store clerk. Purchase support method comprising: [C5] On a computer, A detection function for detecting an accounting instruction; An output function for outputting a notification prompting an input of whether or not a privilege is used when the privilege is applicable based on the privilege information in response to the detection of the accounting instruction; A detection function for detecting an input of whether or not a privilege is used; An output function for outputting a notification indicating a call to a store clerk in response to the detection of an input indicating that there is a use of a privilege; An information processing program for causing the above to be executed.

Explanation of Symbols

[0086] 10... Self-checkout system, 20... Self-POS terminal, 30... Attendant terminal, 40... Store server, 50... Network, 200... Main body, 201... Scale unit, 202... Display pole, 203... Touch panel, 204... Cage, 205... Scanner, 206... Card insertion slot, 207... Receipt issuance port, 208... Coin insertion port, 209... Coin payout port, 210... Bill insertion port, 211... Bill payout port, 212... Communication cable, 213... Reader / writer, 214... Stand, 221... Housing, 222... Scale pan, 223... Bag holder, 234... Auxiliary memory device, 235... Communication interface, 236... Automatic change dispenser, 237... Printer, 238... Card reader, 239... System transmission path, 2021... Light emitting part, 2051... Reading window, 2221... Placing surface, 2231... Holding arm, 2311... Acquisition part, 2312... Registration part, 2313... Detection part, 2314... Judgment part, 2315... Output part, 2316... Reflection part, 2317... Settlement processing part, 2361... Coin unit, 2362... Bill unit, SCa... Product registration screen, SCb... Privilege utilization selection screen, SCc... Store clerk call screen, SCd... Privilege utilization confirmation screen, SCe... Discount application screen, SCf... Non-target notification screen, SCg... Settlement screen.

Claims

1. a determination unit that determines whether the benefit is applicable based on application conditions in benefit information including benefit application conditions and benefit target conditions; an output unit that outputs a notification prompting an input as to whether or not the benefit is to be used when the determination unit determines that the benefit is applicable; a detection unit that detects an input indicating the use of the benefit after the notification is output; a reflection unit that, when the detection unit detects an input indicating the use of the benefit, determines whether or not a total amount of the purchased goods or the purchased goods satisfy the benefit eligibility condition; A purchasing assistance device comprising:

2. The reflection unit validates the benefit when a total amount of the purchased goods or the purchased goods satisfy the benefit eligibility condition. The purchasing support device according to claim 1 .

3. If the total amount of the purchased items or the purchased items do not satisfy the bonus eligibility conditions, the output unit outputs a notification indicating that the bonus is invalid. The purchasing support device according to claim 1 .

4. Outputting a notification prompting the customer to input whether or not to use the benefit includes causing a display unit to display a screen on which a notification prompting the customer to input whether or not to use the benefit, a button for the customer to specify that the benefit will be used, and a button for the customer to specify that the benefit will not be used are displayed. The purchase support device according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. A purchasing support method executed by a purchasing support device, determining whether the benefit is applicable based on application conditions in benefit information including benefit application conditions and benefit target conditions; outputting a notification prompting the user to input whether or not to use the benefit when it is determined that the benefit is applicable; detecting an input indicating the use of the benefit after outputting the notification; When an input indicating the use of the benefit is detected, determining whether or not the total amount of the purchased items or the purchased items satisfy the benefit eligibility conditions; A purchasing assistance method that includes the following:

6. On the computer, A function of determining whether the benefit is applicable based on application conditions in benefit information including benefit application conditions and benefit target conditions; an output function for outputting a notification prompting an input as to whether or not the benefit is to be used when it is determined that the benefit is applicable; a function of detecting an input indicating the use of the benefit after the notification is output; a function of determining whether or not a total amount of the purchased items or the purchased items satisfy the conditions for the benefit when an input indicating the benefit is to be used is detected; An information processing program for executing the above.

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