Merchandise sales data processing device, program, and merchandise sales data processing system

Abstract

To reduce a workload related to the verification of cash vouchers by clerks.SOLUTION: An item sales data processor includes display control means and verification processing means. The display control means controls the display of cash vouchers used for transactions of registered items and registered by a customer in a manner different from the item. The verification processing means performs verification processing to have a clerk confirm the cash voucher displayed by the control of the display control means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

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

[0002] Conventionally, self-checkout registers have become commonplace in supermarkets and other stores, allowing customers to register and pay by themselves without the assistance of a store clerk. Furthermore, transactions using gift certificates and other vouchers are sometimes conducted in stores. A related technology is a sales data processing device that, when it uses a captured image to identify a gift certificate as being available in the store, allows the gift certificate to be used without the need for confirmation by a store clerk (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below).

[0003] A wide variety of coupons are used in stores, and the automatic change dispensers installed at self-checkout registers may not be able to process payments using various coupons. For this reason, when using a coupon at a self-checkout register, a store clerk may need to verify the coupon. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-153120 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, the conventional technology has the problem that it can be time-consuming for store clerks to check the vouchers.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technique that can reduce the burden on store clerks in checking gift certificates. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing device that is characterized by having a display control means that controls the display of gift certificates used in transactions of registered products and registered by customers in a display mode different from that of the products, and a confirmation processing means that performs confirmation processing to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificates displayed by the control of the display control means.

[0008] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer used in a product sales data processing device to function as a display control means that controls the display of gift certificates used in transactions of registered products and registered by customers in a display format different from that of the products, and a confirmation processing means that performs confirmation processing to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificates displayed by the control of the display control means.

[0009] In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing system that includes a registration device that registers products and a product sales data processing device that settles the payments for the products, wherein the product sales data processing device is characterized in that it is equipped with a display control means that controls the display of gift certificates used in transactions for registered products and registered by customers in a display mode different from that of the products, and a confirmation processing means that performs confirmation processing to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificates displayed by the control of the display control means. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 is an explanatory diagram showing a network configuration of a POS (Point Of Sales) system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of installation of a POS terminal device 20. [Figure 3] 2 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of a POS terminal device 20. FIG. [Figure 4] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the POS terminal device 20 in the full self-service mode. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a settlement process performed by the POS terminal device 20. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition of screens displayed on the customer side display unit 205 in full self-service mode. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition of screens displayed on the customer side display unit 205 in full self-service mode. [Figure 8] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the POS terminal device 20 in the transaction-only mode. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the POS terminal device 20 in the full self-service mode according to the first modification. [Figure 10] 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a settlement process performed by a POS terminal device 20 in a full self-service mode according to a first modification. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition of screens displayed on the customer side display unit 205 in the first modification. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen when a confirmation operation by a store clerk is accepted. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a store clerk confirmation screen 1300 in which an image is displayed in the gift certificate registration field 631. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a gift certificate registration screen 1400 for registering a gift certificate using a display button corresponding to the gift certificate. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a network configuration of a shopping system 1500. [Figure 16] 15 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing from product registration to transaction completion in the shopping system 1500. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] (Embodiment) (Network configuration of POS system 1) FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of a POS (Point Of Sales) system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The POS system 1 is an example of a product sales data processing system. The POS system 1 is installed in various stores such as supermarkets, home improvement stores, convenience stores, and various supply stores. The POS system 1 shown in FIG. 1 includes a store controller 10, a transaction status management device 11, and a POS terminal device 20. Each device is connected to each other so as to be able to communicate via a LAN 55. Each device is a computer device equipped with a CPU (Central Processing Unit), ROM (Read Only Memory), RAM (Random Access Memory), a communication unit, etc.

[0012] The store controller 10 stores various information necessary for transactions, such as a product master. The product master is a file that stores product information such as product identification information (e.g., JAN (Japanese Article Number) code), product name, and sales price for each product. The product master also includes product identification information, product name, and unit price of products that require weighing (products to be weighed). In addition to the product master, the store controller 10 also stores various information such as inventory status, sales history, and deposit and withdrawal records. The store controller 10 may also store customer membership information.

[0013] The transaction status management device 11 is a device that allows a store clerk to monitor the POS terminal device 20. Specifically, the transaction status management device 11 can display the status (operation mode, processing status, etc.) of the POS terminal device 20 and control the POS terminal device 20. In the POS system 1, it is possible to assign one store clerk to the transaction status management device 11 and have the clerk monitor the POS terminal device 20.

[0014] The POS terminal 20 is an example of a product sales data processing device. The POS terminal 20 can operate in one of several operating modes. Specifically, the POS terminal 20 can be operated by either a customer or a store clerk, depending on the mode. The modes referred to here are a full self-service mode, a store clerk registration mode, and a checkout-only mode.

[0015] The full self-service mode is a mode in which the customer registers the product on their own device and pays for it on their own device. The clerk registration mode is a mode in which a clerk registers products. In addition, in the clerk registration mode, it is possible to settle the bill at the customer's own device (hereinafter referred to as "face-to-face settlement"), or to have another POS terminal device 20 settle the bill (hereinafter referred to as "self-settlement"). Face-to-face settlement is when the customer settles the bill at the customer's own device. Self-settlement is when the customer settles the bill at another POS terminal device 20. When performing self-settlement, the POS terminal device 20 sends settlement information to the other POS terminal device 20, so that the other POS terminal device 20 can settle the bill using the settlement information. In the clerk registration mode, the customer does not have to settle the bill themselves; that is, the clerk may receive cash or the like from the customer and settle the bill. The checkout-only mode is a mode in which payment information for products registered in another POS terminal device 20 is acquired and payment is carried out by the user.

[0016] 1 shows a plurality of POS terminal devices 20 (n devices: n≧2), but it may be one. However, when there is one POS terminal device 20, the POS terminal device 20 operates in either a full self-service mode or a mode for face-to-face settlement in a store clerk registration mode.

[0017] The POS system 1 may also include a clerk terminal carried by a clerk. The clerk terminal can display the status (operation mode, processing status, etc.) of the POS terminal device 20 and control the POS terminal device 20. The clerk terminal can also receive information from the POS terminal device 20 indicating that a clerk should be called and display that information.

[0018] (Configuration example of POS terminal device 20) Next, the configuration of the POS terminal device 20 will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of installation of the POS terminal device 20. As shown in FIG. Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the POS terminal device 20. In Fig. 2 and Fig. 3, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals.

[0019] An example of the configuration of the POS terminal 20 shown in Fig. 3 will be described below with reference to Fig. 2. The POS terminal 20 includes a CPU 201, a ROM 202, a RAM 203, a hard disk 204, a customer display unit 205, a customer scanner unit 206, a card payment unit 208, a change dispenser 209, a store clerk display unit 210, a key operation unit 211, a store clerk scanner unit 212, a printing unit 213, an audio output unit 214, a communication unit 215, and a camera 216. These components can communicate with each other via a bus.

[0020] The CPU 201 is a central processing unit that reads and executes various programs stored in the ROM 202 to control the operation of the POS terminal device 20. The various programs include a product sales data processing program according to this embodiment. The ROM 202 is a read-only memory that stores various types of information used by the CPU 201, including programs.

[0021] The RAM 203 is a readable and writable memory that stores various information. For example, the RAM 203 stores information acquired from the outside (e.g., a product master acquired from the store controller 10) and information generated during processing. This information includes, for example, registration information generated during a registration process for registering a product, and settlement information generated during a settlement process for settling the registered product (registered product).

[0022] The hard disk 204 stores various types of information. For example, the hard disk 204 stores imaging results (e.g., video) captured by the camera 216. For example, the hard disk 204 may store various programs, such as a product sales data processing program executed by the CPU 201, instead of the ROM 202. Furthermore, instead of the RAM 203, the hard disk 204 may store information acquired from an external source or information generated during processing.

[0023] The customer-side display unit 205 is a touch display for customers. The customer-side display unit 205 displays various information to customers and receives various inputs from customers. The customer-side scanner unit 206 is a scanner unit for customers and optically reads various information. For example, the customer-side scanner unit 206 optically reads barcodes (such as product codes) attached to products and codes (such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes) printed on receipts (registered trademarks). The customer-side scanner unit 206 also reads codes (such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes) printed on gift certificates (gift certificates, coupons, and complimentary coupons) and various cards (such as membership cards and point cards). Gift certificates include those printed on paper media and those displayed on electronic media. Gift certificates displayed on electronic media are, for example, electronic coupons displayed on smartphones or other devices carried by customers. Note that product registration by customers is not limited to code reading by the customer-side scanner unit 206. For example, a preset key (a button for ordering a product) corresponding to a product can be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205, and the customer can register the product by operating (pressing) the preset key.

[0024] The card payment unit 208 is a payment mechanism that uses various cards (credit cards, prepaid cards such as transportation cards, point cards, etc.). The card payment unit 208 is equipped with a card recognition unit, a display unit, and an operation unit. The card recognition unit magnetically or electrically reads information from various cards. The read information is used to settle the registered product bill. The card recognition unit can also recognize information to be used in settling the registered product bill, for example, when using points held on a point card. The card recognition unit can also recognize information that is not used in settling the registered product bill, for example, when adding points to a point card.

[0025] Although the card payment unit 208 of this embodiment includes a card recognition unit, a display unit, and an operation unit, it is not limited to these and may include at least a card recognition unit. The card recognition unit of this embodiment may be compatible with contact cards (IC cards, magnetic cards) or contactless cards (IC cards).

[0026] The change machine 209 is a cash settlement mechanism, and has an input port for banknotes and coins, and an output port for banknotes and coins. The change machine 209 calculates the amount of money inserted into the input port, calculates the change amount, which is the difference between the input amount and the purchase amount, and outputs the change from the output port. The change machine 209 faces the customer side and accepts various operations and cash insertions from customers. The change machine 209 also has a sensor that detects banknotes and coins inserted into the input port. The sensor detects that banknotes and coins have been inserted into the input port, and detects the number of each denomination.

[0027] The clerk-side display unit 210 is a touch display for the clerk. The clerk-side display unit 210 displays various information to the clerk and accepts various inputs from the clerk. The clerk-side display unit 210 displays preset keys corresponding to products, and the products are registered by the clerk pressing the preset keys.

[0028] The key operation unit 211 is made up of various keys (hardware keys, buttons). The key operation unit 211 accepts various inputs from a store clerk. The key operation unit 211 includes keys corresponding to products, and when the key is pressed by the store clerk, the product is registered.

[0029] The key operation unit 211 also includes a mode switching button. The mode switching button is a button for switching the operating mode. Specifically, the mode switching button is a button that can switch the mode to be transitioned to in a predetermined order each time it is pressed. This order is set in advance, for example, as follows: clerk registration mode → full self-service mode → checkout only mode → clerk registration mode → ... Therefore, to switch from clerk registration mode to checkout only mode, the clerk needs to press the mode switching button twice.

[0030] The button for switching modes is not limited to a hard key (mechanical key), but may be a selection button (soft key) displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210. This selection button may, for example, display multiple buttons corresponding to destination modes. Specifically, if the current mode is the clerk registration mode, a button for switching to the checkout-only mode and a button for switching to the full self-service mode may be displayed. This makes it possible to switch between modes with a single touch. However, the selection button displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210 may be a single button, like the mode switching button included in the key operation unit 211, that is, a button that switches to the destination mode in a predetermined order each time it is pressed.

[0031] Furthermore, the button for switching modes is generally displayed on the clerk-side display unit 210, but may also be displayed on the customer-side display unit 205. For example, if it can be determined that a clerk is clearly on the customer side, it is also possible to display the button on the customer-side display unit 205. Examples of situations in which a clerk is clearly on the customer side include when the customer-side scanner unit 206 is used to transition to a clerk-only maintenance screen, or when the customer-side display unit 205 is operated to transition to a clerk-only maintenance screen.

[0032] The store clerk scanner unit 212 is a scanner unit for store clerks and optically reads various types of information. For example, the store clerk scanner unit 212 optically reads barcodes attached to products and store clerk codes attached to store clerk name tags. The store clerk scanner unit 212 can also read codes printed on receipts, vouchers, and various cards.

[0033] The printing unit 213 prints and outputs various media (receipts, bills, etc.). The printing unit 213 can change the direction of the media issuing slot. Specifically, the printing unit 213 has a rotatable mechanism and is configured so that the media issuing slot faces from the store clerk side to the customer side, and from the customer side to the store clerk side. The direction of the media issuing slot may be changeable manually or automatically in response to switching between operating modes. The printing unit 213 may also be equipped with a sensor that detects whether the orientation of the printing issuing slot is correct.

[0034] The audio output unit 214 outputs audio. For example, the audio output unit 214 outputs audio guidance, warning sounds, etc. The audio guidance and warning sounds relate to, for example, product registration and payment. The communication unit 215 is an interface for transmitting and receiving information to and from other devices (the store controller 10, the transaction status management device 11, and other POS terminal devices 20).

[0035] Camera 216 is attached to the upper right of customer-side display unit 205 when viewed from the customer side. Camera 216 is a camera that continuously captures moving or still images. A CCD (charge coupled device) camera or a CMOS (complementary metal oxide semiconductor) camera can be used for camera 216. Camera 216 also captures images of the customer's operations when registering products. Specifically, camera 216 can capture images of the inside (products) of shopping carts on counters provided on both sides of POS terminal device 20 and the customer's operations when registering products. Camera 216 also captures images of the customer's operations when paying. Specifically, camera 216 captures images of bills and coins held by the customer, change dispenser 209, hand movements, etc.

[0036] As an example, a specific description will be given of recording related to payment. Camera 216 is installed so as to capture an image of a customer performing operations related to payment from a customer's standing position. The captured image by camera 216 can be used as a monitoring image for monitoring the customer performing payment. The captured image is stored in a storage device such as hard disk 204.

[0037] The captured image can be used, for example, to verify the amount actually deposited or as evidence. For example, suppose a customer deposits a 1,000 yen bill into the change dispenser 209, but then says, "I deposited a 10,000 yen bill, but I didn't get enough change." In this case, the change dispenser 209 records that a 1,000 yen bill was deposited. However, the change dispenser 209 may misrecognize the bill. Therefore, by examining the captured image, a store clerk can confirm the denomination actually deposited by the customer. The captured image can also be presented to the customer as evidence.

[0038] It is also possible to constantly display the image information captured by the camera 216 in real time on the customer-side display unit 205. By constantly displaying the captured image, customers using the POS terminal device 20 can be made aware that they are being photographed, which can have the effect of deterring fraud.

[0039] The captured image is displayed in a partial area of customer-side display unit 205. However, if POS terminal 20 is equipped with a second customer-side display unit different from customer-side display unit 205, the captured image may be displayed on the second customer-side display unit. The second customer-side display unit may have a larger display area than customer-side display unit 205. Increasing the display area of the second customer-side display unit can further improve the deterrent effect against fraud. The second customer-side display unit may be attached to the top, left, or right side of customer-side display unit 205. In particular, if it is attached in a position that improves visibility from a distance (for example, the top), even a store employee (especially a supervisor) who is far from POS terminal 20 can monitor customer usage.

[0040] The period for recording captured images is, for example, the period from the start of a transaction until the customer receives the receipt and leaves the POS terminal 20. The presence or absence of a customer in front of the POS terminal 20 is determined, for example, by a human presence sensor. The camera 216 may record the period during which a customer is in front of the POS terminal 20.

[0041] The camera 216 may also record continuously. That is, the camera 216 may record continuously regardless of whether a transaction is taking place or whether a customer is standing in front of the POS terminal 20. When recording continuously, the POS terminal 20 may be provided with a function to delete unnecessary portions. For example, this function stores the period from five seconds before the start checkout button is pressed to five seconds after the receipt is removed, and deletes the rest. This allows captured images to be saved even before the start checkout button is pressed.

[0042] The sign pole 220 (see FIG. 2) has a light-emitting unit. The light-emitting unit of the sign pole 220 is, for example, an LED (light emitting diode), and can light up in a predetermined color or a predetermined lighting pattern. The lighting pattern of the sign pole 220 indicates that the POS terminal 20 is in use or warns of an abnormality. In addition, the sign pole 220 is provided facing upward, so that even store clerks who are not near the POS terminal 20 can recognize the lighting pattern.

[0043] (Regarding the verification of vouchers by store staff) In full self-service mode or checkout-only mode, when paying using a gift certificate or other voucher, a store clerk must confirm the voucher. Here, the store clerk's confirmation of the voucher can be time-consuming. To explain this time-consuming process in more detail, for example, in full self-service mode, when a customer wishes to use a voucher, the customer first calls a store clerk. The called store clerk then receives the voucher desired by the customer. After this, the store clerk must perform the following three tasks:

[0044] Hassle 1: If the customer has to search for the coupon in their wallet after the store clerk arrives, or if the customer operates the screen of a smartphone or other device to display the electronic coupon, the store clerk will have to wait the time it takes for the customer to prepare the coupon, which may waste the store clerk's valuable time. Effort 2: When a store clerk receives a voucher from a customer, they must check the number and type of each voucher, determine whether it is usable or not, and check for notes such as compatibility with the transaction details (registered products). Therefore, the time required for such visual checks and to determine whether it is usable or not can be wasted time for the store clerk. Effort 3: In the full self-service mode, the POS terminal device 20 must be switched from the full self-service mode to a mode exclusively for store clerks (e.g., store clerk registration mode) to register the vouchers that have been deposited, and the time required for this registration work may be wasted time for the store clerk.

[0045] Therefore, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment is designed to reduce the burden associated with the work of checking the cash vouchers. The functional configuration of the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment will be described below.

[0046] (Functional Configuration of POS Terminal Device 20) The POS terminal 20 includes a display control unit, a confirmation processing unit, and a settlement unit. Each unit is realized by the CPU 201 of the POS terminal 20. That is, the CPU 201 of the POS terminal 20 executes a predetermined program (a product sales data processing program) to realize the function of each unit.

[0047] The display control unit controls the display of a voucher registered by a customer on the customer-side display unit 205 in a display format different from that of the registered product. The voucher is used in transactions for the registered product. Examples of the voucher include gift certificates, coupons, and complimentary coupons. A voucher is registered, for example, by the customer having the customer-side scanner unit 206 scan the barcode attached to the voucher.

[0048] A display mode different from the product means, for example, displaying in a registration field different from the product. Specifically, the display control unit displays the product in the product registration field. The product registration field displays, for example, the product name, quantity, price, etc. The display control unit also displays the gift certificate in the gift certificate registration field. The gift certificate registration field displays, for example, the name, number, and monetary value (price) of the gift certificate. The gift certificate registration field is displayed with priority over the product registration field. For example, the image of the gift certificate registration field is superimposed on the image of the product registration field. The gift certificate registration field and the product registration field may be displayed simultaneously (side by side).

[0049] The confirmation processing unit performs a confirmation process to have the store clerk confirm the voucher displayed by the above control of the display control unit. The confirmation process is, for example, a process of prompting the store clerk to confirm the voucher and receiving confirmation from the store clerk by pressing a confirmation button or the like. Note that the confirmation process may also be a process in which the store clerk is deemed to have confirmed the voucher by detecting a store clerk in front of the POS terminal device 20. The store clerk is detected, for example, by scanning a store clerk code using the customer-side scanner unit 206 or the store clerk-side scanner unit 212, or by operating and inputting the store clerk code into the key operation unit 211.

[0050] The confirmation processing unit does not finalize the total payment amount according to the monetary value of the voucher until the confirmation processing is complete. In other words, the confirmation processing unit does not complete the settlement until the confirmation processing is complete. Note that the settlement unit can proceed with the settlement until the confirmation processing is complete. Specifically, the settlement unit may accept the selection of a payment type and the insertion of cash into the change dispenser 209 until the confirmation processing is complete. Furthermore, product registration may be possible until the confirmation processing is complete.

[0051] The confirmation processing unit performs control to call a store clerk (store clerk call control) on the condition that the customer has registered the gift certificate. The store clerk call control involves, for example, lighting up the sign pole 220 in a predetermined lighting mode or informing the transaction status management device 11 of the POS terminal device 20 where the gift certificate has been registered. The transaction status management device 11 reports the device number of the POS terminal device 20. However, the information reported by the transaction status management device 11 may not only include the device number of the POS terminal device 20, but also information about the gift certificate registered in the POS terminal device 20. This allows the store clerk to check the contents of the registered gift certificate in advance, allowing them to make advance preparations, such as determining how to respond, before visiting the POS terminal device 20.

[0052] Depending on the content of the notification from the transaction status management device 11, the transaction at the POS terminal device 20 can be resumed simply by performing an approval operation on the transaction status management device 11 without the store clerk having to go to the POS terminal device 20. Whether the store clerk will go to the POS terminal device 20 or not may be determined based on the content of the registered gift certificate. Specifically, for example, the transaction status management device 11 may display whether or not a store clerk needs to go to the POS terminal device 20 based on the content of the registered gift certificate. Alternatively, the store clerk may determine whether or not a store clerk needs to go to the POS terminal device 20 based on the content of the registered gift certificate. Gift certificates that require a store clerk to go to the POS terminal device 20 include, for example, gift certificates with a large discount (gift certificates with high monetary value) and gift certificates that the store clerk needs to collect without fail.

[0053] In this embodiment, the reason why a store clerk ultimately visits the POS terminal device 20 is because the store clerk needs to check whether the registered details of the gift certificate are fraudulent and to collect the gift certificate without fail. In addition, some types of gift certificates do not have unique numbers and can be used any number of times unless they are collected.

[0054] The store clerk call control is performed when the barcodes of all the coupons have been scanned and registration is complete. However, the store clerk call control may also be performed when the first coupon is registered, i.e., when the barcode of the first coupon is scanned.

[0055] (Processing performed by the POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode) Fig. 4 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode. In Fig. 4, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether product registration has started (step S401). Product registration is started, for example, when a registration start button is pressed on the standby screen. The POS terminal device 20 waits until product registration starts (step S401: NO). When product registration starts (step S401: YES), the POS terminal device 20 determines whether the customer-side scanner unit 206 has scanned the product (step S402).

[0056] If the customer-side scanner unit 206 does not scan the product (step S402: NO), the POS terminal 20 proceeds to step S404. If the customer-side scanner unit 206 has scanned the product (step S402: YES), the POS terminal 20 registers the product and displays the product on the customer-side display unit 205 (step S403). The POS terminal 20 then determines whether or not payment has started (step S404). The start of payment means, for example, pressing the payment start button.

[0057] If the settlement has not started (step S404: NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S402. If the settlement has started (step S404: YES), the POS terminal 20 performs the settlement process (see FIG. 5) (step S405) and ends the series of processes.

[0058] (Settlement process performed by POS terminal device 20) Fig. 5 is a flowchart showing an example of a settlement process performed by the POS terminal 20. In Fig. 5, the POS terminal 20 displays a payment type selection screen that accepts the selection of a payment type (cash, credit card, gift certificate, etc.) (step S501). On the payment type selection screen, the POS terminal 20 determines whether a gift certificate has been selected (step S502).

[0059] If a gift certificate is not selected (step S502: NO), the POS terminal 20 determines whether another payment method has been selected (step S503). If another payment method has not been selected (step S503: NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S502. If another payment method has been selected (step S503: YES), the POS terminal 20 confirms the total payment amount for the purchased items (step S504) and proceeds to step S513.

[0060] If a gift certificate is selected in step S502 (step S502: YES), the POS terminal device 20 determines whether the customer-side scanner unit 206 has scanned the barcode of the gift certificate (step S505). If the customer-side scanner unit 206 has not scanned the barcode of the gift certificate (step S505: NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S507. If the customer-side scanner unit 206 has scanned the barcode of the gift certificate (step S505: YES), the gift certificate is registered and the gift certificate is displayed on the customer-side display unit 205 (step S506).

[0061] The POS terminal 20 then determines whether or not the registration of the gift certificate has been confirmed (step S507). The registration of the gift certificate is confirmed, for example, when the Confirm button is pressed. If the registration of the gift certificate is not confirmed (step S507: NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S505. If the registration of the gift certificate is confirmed (step S507: YES), the POS terminal 20 performs store clerk call control (step S508). In the store clerk call control, the POS terminal 20 lights up the sign pole 220 in a predetermined lighting mode and displays the POS terminal 20 in which the gift certificate has been registered on the transaction status management device 11.

[0062] Next, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether or not a store clerk has been detected (step S509). The POS terminal device 20 waits until a store clerk is detected (step S509: NO). When a store clerk is detected (step S509: YES), the POS terminal device 20 performs a store clerk confirmation process to have the store clerk check the registered gift certificate (step S510). The store clerk confirmation process prompts the store clerk to check the gift certificate displayed in a display format different from the product, and receives confirmation from the store clerk by pressing a confirmation button. The POS terminal device 20 then determines whether the amount (monetary value) of the gift certificate checked by the store clerk is equal to or greater than the total price of the registered products (step S511).

[0063] If the value of the gift certificate is less than the total amount (step S511: NO), the POS terminal 20 calculates the remaining amount (step S512), proceeds to step S501, and accepts the selection of the payment method for the remaining amount. In other words, when a gift certificate is registered, the total payment amount according to the monetary value of the gift certificate is not determined until the store clerk verification process (step S510) is performed.

[0064] If the value of the gift certificate is equal to or greater than the total amount (step S511: YES), the POS terminal device 20 performs accounting processing according to the payment type (step S513). In accounting processing, for example, if the payment type is cash, cash is inserted or dispensed, and if the payment type is credit card, an inquiry is made to the card company and card payment is made. Note that there are two types of gift certificates: those that do not give change and those that do, so-called "change vouchers." In the case of a change voucher, the amount of the gift certificate that exceeds the total amount of the transaction is dispensed in cash. On the other hand, in the case of a gift certificate that does not give change, even if the value of the gift certificate is equal to or greater than the total amount in step S511, no change is dispensed and the process proceeds to step S515.

[0065] The POS terminal 20 then determines whether the transaction is complete (step S514). The POS terminal 20 waits until the transaction is complete (step S514: NO). If the transaction is complete (step S514: YES), a receipt is issued (step S515) and the process ends.

[0066] (Regarding the transition of screens displayed on the customer side display unit 205 in full self-service mode) 6 and 7 are explanatory diagrams showing an example of the transition of screens displayed on the customer display unit 205 in the full self-service mode. Fig. 6(A) shows a product registration screen 610 displayed on the customer display unit 205. The product registration screen 610 includes a registration guide 610a, a registered product field 611, a total display field 612, preset keys 613, a captured image 614, a store clerk call button 615, and a checkout start button 616.

[0067] Registration guide 610a shows guidance for encouraging scanning of the barcode attached to the product. Registered product column 611 shows a list of registered products. Registered product column 611 shows the product name and price of the registered product. Total display column 612 shows the total number of registered products and the total price. Preset keys 613 are buttons that accept operation input to register a product. For example, when the button showing "vegetables" among preset keys 613 is pressed, a list of vegetable products such as tomatoes and carrots is displayed as a button, and when a product displayed as a button is pressed, that product is registered.

[0068] The captured image 614 shows a real-time video captured by the camera 216. In the illustration, the captured image 614 shows a customer scanning the barcode of a product. The store clerk call button 615 is a button for calling a store clerk. If a customer has trouble with the registration or payment operations, they can press the store clerk call button 615 to call a store clerk. The checkout start button 616 is a button for accepting the start of the payment process. Pressing the checkout start button 616 transitions to a payment type selection screen 620 shown in Figure 6(B).

[0069] FIG. 6(B) shows a payment type selection screen 620. The payment type selection screen 620 is a screen that accepts the selection of, for example, cash, credit card, electronic money, or gift certificate. Note that by pressing the "Other Payment" button 621 on the payment type selection screen 620, it is also possible to select other payment types (for example, debit card, mobile payment, etc.). When the payment type of gift certificate is selected on the payment type selection screen 620, the screen transitions to a gift certificate registration screen 630 shown in FIG. 6(C).

[0070] FIG. 6(C) shows a voucher registration screen 630. The voucher registration screen 630 includes a prompt to scan the barcode attached to the voucher, a voucher registration field 631, and a confirmation button 632. The voucher registration field 631 shows the name (type of voucher), number, and other information of the registered voucher. The other information indicates the number of vouchers to be returned if a maximum number of vouchers can be used for that type of voucher. For example, the maximum number of beer vouchers that can be used at a store is set at three. The illustration also shows that three beer vouchers have been registered. Therefore, the other information indicates that one beer voucher will be returned. The other information also indicates that no change will be given for some vouchers. The illustration shows that no change will be given for XX gift cards.

[0071] If a store has a set limit on the number of coupons that can be used, registration of coupons exceeding the limit may not be accepted. In other words, registration of three or more beer coupons may not be accepted. In this case, the POS terminal device 20 may display a message indicating that registration of three or more beer coupons will not be accepted. Furthermore, for coupons for which no change is given, this may be displayed when the coupon is registered, and the coupon may be registered only if the customer agrees.

[0072] The Confirm button 632 is a button for accepting confirmation of the content displayed in the voucher registration field 631. When the Confirm button 632 is pressed, the screen transitions to a store clerk calling screen 640 shown in FIG.

[0073] FIG. 6(D) shows a store clerk calling screen 640. The store clerk calling screen 640 indicates that a store clerk is being called and that the customer should wait until the store clerk arrives. The store clerk calling screen 640 may also display a registered product field 611 and a coupon registration field 631. This allows the customer to check the registered products and coupons until the store clerk arrives. When the store clerk arrives and scans the store clerk code on the customer's name tag with the customer-side scanner unit 206 or the store clerk-side scanner unit 212, the screen transitions to a store clerk confirmation screen 710 shown in FIG. 7(A).

[0074] FIG. 7(A) shows the clerk confirmation screen 710. The clerk confirmation screen 710 includes a message prompting the customer to confirm the gift certificate, a gift certificate registration field 631, a correction button 711, and a confirmation button 712. The clerk confirms that the gift certificate received from the customer is correct and the gift certificate displayed in the gift certificate registration field 631. The clerk also assists the customer in accordance with the other information listed. For example, the clerk may return one beer coupon to the customer or verbally explain that no change will be given for the gift card.

[0075] The Modify button 711 is a button that accepts modifications to the content displayed in the gift certificate registration field 631. For example, when the Modify button 711 is pressed, a screen is displayed that accepts a modification to reduce the number of registered beer coupons from three to two. Also, if a customer requests to cancel the use of a gift card because no change will be given for the gift card, pressing the Modify button 711 will transition to a screen that allows the number of gift cards used to be modified to zero.

[0076] The Confirm button 712 is a button for confirming the content displayed in the voucher registration field 631. When the Confirm button 712 is pressed, the screen transitions to the payment type selection screen 720 in FIG.

[0077] Figure 7(B) shows the payment type selection screen 720. The payment type selection screen 720 differs from the payment type selection screen 620 shown in Figure 6(B) in that the amount displayed in the payment amount field corresponds to the monetary value of the gift certificate. Specifically, the total amount on the payment type selection screen 720 has been changed from 3,500 yen on the payment type selection screen 620 to 240 yen. For example, when cash is selected as the payment type on the payment type selection screen 720, the screen transitions to the checkout processing screen 730 shown in Figure 7(C).

[0078] FIG. 7(C) shows a transaction processing screen 730. The transaction processing screen 730 includes a message prompting the customer to insert cash, a deposit amount field 731, a captured image 732, and a receipt issue button 733. The deposit amount field 731 shows the total amount of cash inserted by the customer into the change dispenser 209. The captured image 732 shows real-time video captured by the camera 216. In the illustration, the captured image 732 shows the operation of inserting a 1000 yen bill. The receipt issue button 733 is a button that accepts the issuance of a receipt. The receipt issue button 733 becomes enabled when the amount inserted is equal to or greater than the total payment amount. When a 1000 yen bill is inserted into the change dispenser 209 and the receipt issue button 733 is pressed, the screen transitions to a transaction completion screen 740 shown in FIG. 7(D).

[0079] 7(D) shows a transaction completion screen 740. The transaction completion screen 740 displays the amount of change due and a prompt to accept the change and receipt. When the customer receives the change and receipt, the transaction is complete.

[0080] (Processing performed by the POS terminal device 20 in the transaction-only mode) Next, we will explain the processing performed by the POS terminal device 20 in the transaction-only mode. In the transaction-only mode, the POS terminal device 20 can also display a cash voucher in the cash voucher registration field at the time of payment, just like in the full self-service mode. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the POS terminal device 20 in the payment-only mode. In FIG. 8, the POS terminal device 20 in the payment-only mode determines whether or not payment has started (step S801). The start of payment in step S801 refers to, for example, receiving payment information from the POS terminal device 20 in the clerk registration mode, or scanning the payment ticket by the customer-side scanner unit 206.

[0081] The POS terminal 20 waits until payment is started (step S801: NO). When payment is started (step S801: YES), the POS terminal 20 performs payment processing (see FIG. 5) (step S802) and ends the series of processes. The payment processing in the cashier-only mode is the same as the payment processing in the full self-service mode (see FIG. 5).

[0082] As described above, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment controls the display of a gift certificate registered by a customer in a different display format from the product, and performs a confirmation process to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificate displayed by this control. Because the gift certificate is displayed in a different display format from the product, the store clerk can easily identify the registered gift certificate. Therefore, the store clerk can simply verify the gift certificate presented by the customer against the displayed gift certificate. Furthermore, the store clerk can be prevented from registering the gift certificate. This reduces the burden associated with the process of confirming the gift certificate.

[0083] More specifically, because the customer has already registered the desired gift certificate in advance, the customer does not need to prepare the gift certificate when the store clerk is called, eliminating the need for the store clerk to wait for the time it would take for the customer to prepare the gift certificate. Furthermore, because the customer has already registered the gift certificate by operating the POS terminal 20, and the POS terminal 20 has already performed most of the visual confirmation and determination of whether the gift certificate can be used, the burden on the store clerk in verifying the gift certificate is reduced. Furthermore, because the gift certificate is already registered in advance on the self-service screen operated by the customer, the time required to switch operating modes and register the gift certificate after the store clerk arrives is eliminated. This reduction in the store clerk's workload reduces the time required for each POS terminal 20. Therefore, even with a small number of store clerks, it is possible to support and monitor transactions at many POS terminals 20.

[0084] Furthermore, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment is configured to display the gift certificate and the product in different registration fields, which makes it easier for the store clerk to understand the gift certificate.

[0085] Furthermore, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment does not determine the total payment amount based on the monetary value of the voucher until the store clerk has completed the verification process, thereby preventing fraudulent activities using the voucher.

[0086] Furthermore, the POS terminal device 20 according to this embodiment is configured to call a store clerk on the condition that the customer has registered the gift certificate. This allows a store clerk to be dispatched to the POS terminal device 20 quickly. This reduces the waiting time of customers waiting for a store clerk. Furthermore, a store clerk can be called without the customer having to perform any operation to call the store clerk.

[0087] (Modification of the embodiment) Modifications of the embodiment will be described below. Note that in the following modifications, the contents described in the above-described embodiment will be omitted as appropriate. It is also possible to have a configuration in which the configurations shown in the above-described embodiment and each modification are combined. Specifically, it is possible to have a configuration that includes all of the above-described embodiment and each modification, or a configuration that combines one of the above-described embodiment and each modification.

[0088] (Variation 1) First, a first modification of the embodiment will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the cash voucher is registered during the settlement process. In addition to or instead of this configuration, in the first modification, a configuration will be described in which, in full self-service mode, the cash voucher can be registered at the stage of registering the product.

[0089] In Variation 1, the POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode also registers gift certificates on the product registration screen. That is, in Variation 1, for example, it is possible to register one product, then register a gift certificate, and then register another product. In addition to products, gift certificates can also be displayed in the product registration field. Here, the display control unit controls the customer-side display unit 205 to display the gift certificate in a display mode different from that of the registered product. In Variation 1, a display mode different from that of the product means, for example, that at least one of the following is different from that of the product: character color, background color, character size, font type, etc.

[0090] In addition, in the first modification, when the confirmation processing unit accepts the start of settlement, it performs a store clerk call control on the condition that a gift certificate has been registered. However, the store clerk call control does not necessarily have to be performed when the start of settlement is accepted. For example, the store clerk call control may be performed when the first gift certificate is registered. This can shorten the customer's waiting time.

[0091] (Processing performed by the POS terminal device 20 in the full self-service mode according to the first modification) Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of processing performed by the POS terminal 20 in the full self-service mode according to Modification 1. In Fig. 9, the POS terminal 20 determines whether product registration has started (step S901). The POS terminal 20 waits until product registration starts (step S901: NO). When product registration starts (step S901: YES), the POS terminal 20 determines whether the customer-side scanner unit 206 has scanned the product (step S902).

[0092] If the customer-side scanner unit 206 does not scan the product (step S902: NO), the POS terminal device 20 proceeds to step S904. If the customer-side scanner unit 206 has scanned the product (step S902: YES), the POS terminal device 20 registers the product and displays the product on the customer-side display unit 205 (step S903).

[0093] The POS terminal 20 then determines whether the customer scanner 206 has scanned the barcode of the voucher (step S904). If the customer scanner 206 has not scanned the barcode of the voucher (step S904: NO), the POS terminal 20 proceeds to step S906. If the customer scanner 206 has scanned the barcode of the voucher (step S904: YES), the POS terminal 20 registers the voucher and displays it on the customer display 205 (step S905).

[0094] The POS terminal 20 then determines whether or not settlement has begun (step S906). The start of settlement means, for example, pressing the settlement start button. If settlement has not begun (step S906: NO), the POS terminal 20 returns to step S902. If settlement has begun (step S906: YES), the POS terminal 20 performs settlement processing (see FIG. 10) (step S907), and ends the series of processes.

[0095] (Settlement Process Performed by POS Terminal Device 20 in Full Self-Service Mode According to Modification 1) Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a settlement process performed by the POS terminal device 20 in the full self-service mode according to Modification 1. In Fig. 10, the POS terminal device 20 determines whether a gift certificate has been registered (step S1001). If a gift certificate has not been registered (step S1001: NO), the POS terminal device 20 displays a payment type selection screen that accepts the selection of a payment type (cash, credit card, gift certificate, etc.) (step S1001).

[0096] Then, the POS terminal 20 waits until a payment type is selected on the payment type selection screen (step S1003: NO). Once a payment type is selected (step S1003: YES), the POS terminal 20 confirms the total payment amount for the purchased products (step S1004) and proceeds to step S1010.

[0097] In step S1001, if a gift certificate is registered (step S1001: YES), the POS terminal device 20 performs store clerk call control (step S1005). In the store clerk call control, the POS terminal device 20 lights up the sign pole 220 in a predetermined lighting mode and causes the transaction status management device 11 to display the POS terminal device 20 that has registered the gift certificate.

[0098] Next, the POS terminal 20 determines whether or not a store clerk has been detected (step S1006). The POS terminal 20 waits until a store clerk is detected (step S1006: NO). When a store clerk is detected (step S1006: YES), the POS terminal 20 performs a store clerk confirmation process to have the store clerk check the registered coupon (step S1007). The store clerk confirmation process prompts the store clerk to check the coupon displayed in a display format different from the product, and receives confirmation from the store clerk by pressing a confirmation button. Then, the POS terminal 20 determines whether the amount (monetary value) of the coupon checked by the store clerk is equal to or greater than the total amount (step S1008).

[0099] If the value of the gift certificate is less than the total amount (step S1008: NO), the POS terminal 20 calculates the remaining amount (step S1009), proceeds to step S1002, and accepts the selection of the payment type for the remaining amount. In other words, when a gift certificate is registered, the total payment amount according to the monetary value of the gift certificate is not determined until the store clerk verification process (step S1007) is performed. If the value of the gift certificate is equal to or greater than the total amount (step S1008: YES), the POS terminal 20 performs accounting processing according to the payment type (step S1010). In the accounting process, for example, if the payment type is cash, cash is inserted or withdrawn, and if the payment type is credit card, an inquiry is made to the card company and card payment is made.

[0100] The POS terminal 20 then determines whether the transaction is complete (step S1011). The POS terminal 20 waits until the transaction is complete (step S1011: NO). If the transaction is complete (step S1011: YES), a receipt is issued (step S1012), and the process ends.

[0101] (Regarding transition of screens displayed on customer side display unit 205 in Modification 1) FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the transition of screens displayed on the customer display unit 205 in Modification 1. FIG. 11(A) shows a gift certificate registration screen 1110 displayed on the customer display unit 205 of the POS terminal device 20 in full self-service mode. The gift certificate registration screen 1110 differs from the product registration screen 610 of FIG. 6(A) in that a registration guide 1110a is displayed. The registration guide 1110a displays a guide encouraging the user to scan the barcode attached to the product or gift certificate. If the barcodes of the product and gift certificate are further scanned on the gift certificate registration screen 1110, the screen transitions to a gift certificate registration screen 1120 shown in FIG. 11(B).

[0102] FIG. 11(B) shows the product voucher registration screen 1120. On the product voucher registration screen 1120, products and vouchers are registered in the registered product column 611. The display mode of the voucher differs from the display mode of the product. Specifically, the background color of the voucher differs from the background color of the product. Furthermore, the total display column 612 displays that a voucher has been registered and the number of vouchers registered. When the start checkout button 616 is pressed on the product voucher registration screen 1120, the screen transitions to the store clerk calling screen 640 shown in FIG. 11(C).

[0103] Figure 11(C) shows a store clerk calling screen 1130. The store clerk calling screen 1130 is similar to the store clerk calling screen 640 in Figure 6(D). When the store clerk arrives and scans the store clerk code on the name tag with the customer-side scanner unit 206 or the store clerk-side scanner unit 212, the screen transitions to the store clerk confirmation screen 710 shown in Figure 11(D).

[0104] 11(D) shows a store clerk confirmation screen 1140. The store clerk confirmation screen 1140 includes a registered product field 611, a total display field 612, a message prompting the customer to confirm the gift certificate, a correction button 1141, and a confirmation button 1142. The store clerk checks whether there are any differences between the gift certificate received from the customer and the gift certificate displayed in the registered product field 611 and the total display field 612. Furthermore, if there is a limit of two beer coupons that can be used, for example, the store clerk may return one beer coupon to the customer or verbally explain that no change will be given for the gift card.

[0105] The Modify button 1141 is a button that accepts modifications to the content displayed in the gift certificate registration field 631. For example, when the Modify button 1141 is pressed, a transition to a screen that accepts a modification to reduce the number of registered beer coupons from three to two is made. Also, if a customer requests to cancel the use of a gift card because no change will be given for the gift card, pressing the Modify button 1141 will transition to a screen that allows the number of gift cards to be modified to zero.

[0106] The Confirm button 1142 is a button for confirming the content displayed in the registered product field 611. When the Confirm button 1142 is pressed, the screen transitions to the payment type selection screen 720 in FIG. 7(B). In FIG. 11, the timing for changing the display mode of the gift certificate from that of the product is when the gift certificate is registered, but this is not limited to this. It is sufficient that the display mode of the gift certificate is changed from that of the product at least when the store clerk checks the gift certificate. In other words, this timing may be when the store clerk code on the name tag is scanned.

[0107] The POS terminal device 20 according to the first modification allows a cash voucher to be registered at the same time as registering a product. This allows a store clerk to be called when the payment begins. This reduces the time customers have to wait for a store clerk. In addition, in the first modification, a cash voucher registered by a customer is displayed in a background color different from that of the product. This allows a store clerk to easily identify the registered cash vouchers, thereby reducing the burden of checking the cash vouchers.

[0108] (Variation 2) Next, a second modification of the embodiment will be described. In the above-described embodiment, the clerk confirmation process prompts the clerk to confirm the voucher, and the clerk confirms by pressing a confirmation button. In the second modification, a configuration will be described in which, in addition to or instead of this configuration, the clerk confirmation process accepts a confirmation operation by the clerk for each voucher.

[0109] In the second modification, the confirmation processing unit receives confirmation from a store clerk for each voucher. The display control unit displays, in different display modes, registered vouchers for which confirmation from a store clerk has been received and those for which confirmation from a store clerk has not been received. This will be specifically described below with reference to FIG. 12.

[0110] FIG. 12 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a screen when a confirmation operation by a store clerk is accepted. FIG. 12 illustrates two screens as another example of the store clerk confirmation process. FIG. 12(A) shows a store clerk confirmation screen 1210 according to Modification 2. The store clerk confirmation screen 1210 accepts the store clerk's press for each voucher. When the store clerk's press is accepted, the background of the accepted voucher is displayed in a display mode indicating that it has been confirmed. This allows the store clerk to easily distinguish between confirmed and unconfirmed vouchers. This reduces confirmation errors by the store clerk.

[0111] FIG. 12(B) shows another example of the clerk confirmation screen 1220 according to the second modification. The clerk confirmation screen 1220 also accepts the clerk's presses for each voucher. When the clerk's presses are accepted, a strikethrough 1221 is added to the accepted voucher. This also allows the clerk to easily distinguish between confirmed and unconfirmed vouchers.

[0112] The display mode of confirmed vouchers is not limited to changing the background color or adding a strikethrough 1221. For example, the display control unit may add a check mark to confirmed vouchers. The display control unit may also erase (hide) confirmed vouchers. The display control unit may also display confirmed vouchers in a reduced size.

[0113] Furthermore, in the second modification, the confirmation from the store clerk is not limited to being received by operation input, but may also be received by scanning the barcode attached to the coupon. That is, the store clerk may receive the confirmation by having the customer-side scanner unit 206 or the store clerk-side scanner unit 212 scan the barcode attached to the coupon. For example, when the store clerk scans a beer-combination coupon, the display control unit may change the display mode of the beer-combination coupon.

[0114] (Variation 3) Next, a third variation of the embodiment will be described. In the above-described embodiment, characters are displayed in the voucher type in the voucher registration field 631 on the store clerk confirmation screen 710 (see FIG. 7). In the third variation, a configuration in which an image is displayed in the voucher registration field 631 in addition to or instead of this configuration will be described.

[0115] FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a store clerk confirmation screen 1300 in which an image is displayed in the voucher registration field 631. In the store clerk confirmation screen 1300 of FIG. 13, the voucher type in the voucher registration field 631 is displayed as an image. The image is an illustration or a photograph. By displaying the voucher type as an image, the store clerk only needs to compare the voucher presented by the customer with the image displayed in the voucher registration field 631. In other words, the store clerk does not need to read the text when confirming the voucher. This allows for easy and quick confirmation of the voucher. It also reduces the chance of mistakes in confirming the voucher. Note that the store clerk confirmation screen 1300 may also accept a confirmation operation by the store clerk for each voucher, as in the second variation, and the display mode of the voucher that has accepted the confirmation operation may be made different from the display mode of an unconfirmed voucher.

[0116] (Variation 4) Next, we will explain Modification 4. In the above-mentioned embodiment, a voucher is registered by scanning a barcode attached to the voucher. In Modification 4, we will explain a configuration in which, in addition to or instead of this configuration, a voucher is registered by operating a display button corresponding to the voucher.

[0117] FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of a coupon registration screen 1400 for registering a coupon using a display button corresponding to the coupon. In FIG. 14, the coupon registration screen 1400 includes a coupon registration field 631, a confirm button 632, a guide 1401, and a coupon registration button 1402. The guide 1401 prompts the user to scan the barcode attached to the coupon and to operate the coupon registration button 1402. The coupon registration button 1402 is a button corresponding to each coupon. When the coupon registration button 1402 is pressed, the coupon corresponding to the button is registered. According to the fourth modification, coupons without barcodes can also be easily registered. Note that in the fourth modification, coupons may not be registered by scanning the barcode attached to the coupon. In other words, coupons may be registered only by pressing the coupon registration button 1402.

[0118] In addition, in Modification 4, the display control unit may control the display of the coupon registration button 1402 based on the registered product. For example, assume that a beer common coupon can only be used to purchase alcoholic beverages. In this case, when alcoholic beverages are registered in the product registration, the coupon registration button 1402 corresponding to the beer common coupon may be displayed, and on the other hand, when alcoholic beverages are not registered in the product registration, the coupon registration button 1402 corresponding to the beer common coupon may not be displayed.

[0119] Similarly, suppose a coupon can only be used for a specific product. In this case, when a product corresponding to the coupon is registered during product registration, the coupon registration button 1402 corresponding to the coupon may be displayed. On the other hand, when a product corresponding to the coupon is not registered during product registration, the coupon registration button 1402 corresponding to the coupon may not be displayed. This prevents customers from operating the coupon registration button 1402 erroneously and registering incorrectly.

[0120] Furthermore, the coupon registration button 1402 in Modification 4 may also be displayed as an image of the coupon type as shown in Modification 3 (FIG. 13). By using an image as the coupon registration button 1402, customers can easily select a coupon from the image without reading the text when registering a coupon. Furthermore, even after registering a coupon, an image may be displayed in the coupon registration field 631 as in Modification 3.

[0121] (Variation 5) Next, a description will be given of Modification 5. In the above-described embodiment, the POS system 1 is described, in which products are registered using the POS terminal device 20. In Modification 5, a description will be given of a shopping system in which a customer operates a mobile terminal device to register products using the mobile terminal device.

[0122] (Network configuration of shopping system 1500) 15 is an explanatory diagram showing the network configuration of a shopping system 1500. The shopping system 1500 is an example of a product sales data processing system. In FIG. 15, the shopping system 1500 includes a cloud server Sv, a store controller 10, a transaction status management device 11, a POS terminal device 20, and a mobile terminal device 30.

[0123] The cloud server Sv is a server device that manages various types of information, such as customer information about customers, store information about stores, product information (product master) about products for each store, and cart information that indicates a virtual cart. For example, the cart information is generated as a virtual cart for each customer and is updated based on code information read by the mobile terminal device 30. Cart identification information for identifying the cart (transaction and customer) is assigned to the cart information.

[0124] The POS terminal device 20 is a computer device capable of processing the settlement of products registered by the mobile terminal device 30 when in the checkout-only mode or the full self-service mode. The shopping system 1500 may include a dedicated device for performing the settlement instead of the POS terminal device 20. In the shopping system 1500, any of the POS terminal devices 20 may operate in the store clerk registration mode. In other words, the shopping system 1500 may include the POS system 1 described in the embodiment.

[0125] The mobile terminal device 30 is a portable computer device such as a smartphone, tablet device, or mobile phone. The mobile terminal device 30 is equipped with a communication unit, an imaging unit (camera), a touch panel, and the like, and is operated by a customer. In this embodiment, the mobile terminal device 30 is detachably attached to the shopping cart. However, the mobile terminal device 30 may be fixed to the shopping cart, i.e., may not be detachable from the shopping cart.

[0126] Furthermore, the mobile terminal device 30 may be owned by the customer, or may be a loaned item loaned by the store to the customer. When not in use, the loaned mobile terminal device 30 is connected to a charger installed at the entrance of the store or the like to charge. The loaned mobile terminal device 30 may be charged by a wired charging method or a contactless charging method (wireless charging).

[0127] Application software (hereinafter referred to as a "shopping app") for registering products related to the shopping system 1500 and for paying for registered products is installed on the mobile terminal device 30. By activating the shopping app, the mobile terminal device 30 scans (reads) barcodes (code information) attached to products and accepts product registration. When the mobile terminal device 30 reads the barcode attached to the product, it transmits the read information together with cart identification information to the cloud server Sv. As a result, the product information corresponding to the barcode is registered in the cart information (virtual cart) of the cloud server Sv.

[0128] Furthermore, when performing payment, the mobile terminal device 30 encodes and displays the cart identification information assigned to the device itself. This code is, for example, a two-dimensional code (QR code: a registered trademark), but it may also be a one-dimensional code (barcode). The customer has the POS terminal device 20 read this two-dimensional code (hereinafter referred to as the "payment code"). After reading the payment code, the POS terminal device 20 requests the cloud server Sv to send cart information (transaction information) indicated by the cart identification information. Then, in response to the transmission request, the POS terminal device 20 receives the transaction information from the cloud server Sv, and is able to perform payment.

[0129] (An example of a process from product registration to transaction completion in the shopping system 1500) 16 is a sequence diagram showing the flow of processing from product registration to transaction completion in the shopping system 1500. Note that Fig. 16 explains the flow from when a customer visits a store, registers a product to be purchased using his / her mobile terminal device 30, to when the transaction is completed using the POS terminal device 20.

[0130] Step S601: First, the mobile terminal device 30 starts up the shopping application. Step S602: The mobile terminal device 30 acquires information identifying the store (store identification information). Here, an example of how the store identification information is acquired will be described. For example, a two-dimensional code indicating the store identification information is displayed near the entrance of the store. The two-dimensional code may be displayed on a predetermined display device or may be displayed by printing on a medium. The mobile terminal device 30 activates a camera provided in the mobile terminal device 30 when a shopping app is launched in response to an operation by a customer who has visited the store. Then, the camera scans the two-dimensional code in response to an operation by the customer. As a result, the mobile terminal device 30 acquires the store identification information. The two-dimensional code may include store identification information for identifying the store.

[0131] The mobile terminal device 30, which has acquired the store identification information, requests the cloud server Sv to start a transaction. Specifically, the mobile terminal device 30 transmits the acquired store identification information and customer identification information to the cloud server Sv.

[0132] Step S603: When the cloud server Sv receives the customer identification information and store identification information as a request to start a transaction from the mobile terminal device 30, it generates cart information for the transaction. The cart information includes, for example, the cart identification information, the transaction start date and time, and the customer identification information. When the cloud server Sv receives the store identification information as a request to start a transaction from the mobile terminal device 30, it references the store information and identifies the store identification information.

[0133] Furthermore, when the cloud server Sv receives a transaction start request from the mobile terminal device 30, it acquires the current date and issues (assigns) a serial number. Furthermore, the cloud server Sv combines the acquired store identification information, the acquired current date, and the issued serial number, and stores them as cart identification information. Furthermore, when the cloud server Sv receives a transaction start request from the mobile terminal device 30, it stores the current date and time as the transaction start date and time (generation date and time) in the cart information. Furthermore, when the cloud server Sv receives a transaction start request from the mobile terminal device 30, it stores the received customer identification information in the cart information.

[0134] Step S604: The mobile terminal device 30 scans the barcode attached to the product in response to an operation by the customer and registers the product. After scanning the product, the mobile terminal device 30 transmits the product code obtained by the scan together with the cart identification information to the cloud server Sv.

[0135] Step S605: When the cloud server Sv receives the product code and cart identification information from the mobile terminal device 30, it identifies the cart information that includes the received cart identification information, and updates the registered product information included in the identified cart information.

[0136] Step S606: The mobile terminal device 30 returns to step S604 until registration is completed. Registration is completed when a settlement start button displayed on the display of the mobile terminal device 30 is pressed to accept the start of settlement. Step S607: When the registration is completed, the mobile terminal device 30 generates a settlement code and displays it on the display.

[0137] Step S608: The POS terminal 20 scans the payment code displayed on the mobile terminal 30. The payment code includes cart identification information and information for the POS terminal 20 to receive cart information from the cloud server Sv. Step S609: After scanning the settlement code, the POS terminal 20 requests the cloud server Sv to transmit cart information. In the request, the POS terminal 20 transmits the cart identification information included in the settlement code to the cloud server Sv.

[0138] Step S610: When the cloud server Sv receives a request to send cart information from the POS terminal 20, the cloud server Sv identifies the cart information using the cart identification information. After identifying the cart information, the cloud server Sv transmits the cart information to the POS terminal 20.

[0139] Step S611: When the POS terminal 20 receives the cart information from the cloud server Sv, it executes the settlement process (see FIG. 5). In the settlement process, the POS terminal 20 accepts the registration of a gift certificate and displays the registered gift certificate in a display format different from that of the merchandise. The POS terminal 20 also performs a confirmation process to have the store clerk confirm the gift certificate. After the settlement process is executed, the POS terminal 20 transmits a transaction completion notification including the cart identification information to the cloud server Sv.

[0140] Step S612: When the cloud server Sv receives the transaction completion notification from the POS terminal device 20, it extracts the cart identification information from the transaction completion notification. Then, the cloud server Sv stores the transaction completion date and time (settlement date and time) of the cart information that includes the cart identification information, and transmits the transaction completion notification to the mobile terminal device 30.

[0141] Step S613: When the mobile terminal device 30 receives the transaction completion notification from the cloud server Sv, it deletes the products registered in the mobile terminal device 30 and terminates the shopping app. Note that, after displaying the settlement code in step S607, the mobile terminal device 30 may delete the products registered in the mobile terminal device 30 and terminate the shopping app. In other words, the cloud server Sv may not perform the process of transmitting the transaction completion notification (step S612).

[0142] According to the fifth modification, the mobile terminal device 30 can register the product, and the POS terminal device 20 can display the registered gift certificate in a different display mode from the product, and a confirmation process can be performed to have the store clerk confirm the gift certificate displayed by the control. Therefore, the shopping system 1500 can also reduce the burden on the store clerk in the process of confirming the gift certificate.

[0143] In the fifth modification, as in the first modification, it may be possible to register a gift certificate at the same time as registering a product. That is, it may be possible to register a gift certificate using the mobile terminal device 30. In this case, the POS terminal device 20 may be configured to call a store clerk at the timing when the settlement code is read by the POS terminal device 20.

[0144] The embodiments will be summarized below. [Name of invention] Product sales data processing device, program, and product sales data processing system TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a merchandise sales data processing device, a program, and a merchandise sales data processing system. [Background technology] Conventionally, self-checkout registers have become commonplace in supermarkets and other stores, allowing customers to register and pay by themselves without the assistance of a store clerk. Furthermore, transactions using gift certificates and other vouchers are sometimes conducted in stores. A related technology is a sales data processing device that, when it uses a captured image to identify a gift certificate as being available in the store, allows the gift certificate to be used without the need for confirmation by a store clerk (see, for example, Patent Document 1 below). A wide variety of coupons are used in stores, and the automatic change dispensers installed at self-checkout registers may not be able to process payments using various coupons. For this reason, when using a coupon at a self-checkout register, a store clerk may need to verify the coupon. [Prior art document] [Patent Documents] [Patent Document 1] JP 2019-153120 A [Summary of the Invention] [Problem to be solved by the invention] However, the conventional technology has the problem that it can be time-consuming for store clerks to check the vouchers. The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to provide a technique that can reduce the burden on store clerks in checking gift certificates. [Means for solving the problem]

[0145] (1) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, one aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing device that is characterized by having a display control means that controls the display of a gift certificate used in the transaction of a registered product and registered by a customer in a display mode different from that of the product, and a confirmation processing means that performs a confirmation process to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificate displayed by the control of the display control means. According to the above configuration, the voucher is displayed in a different display mode from the product display mode, so the store clerk can easily identify the registered voucher. Therefore, the store clerk can simply check the voucher presented by the customer against the displayed voucher. In addition, the store clerk can be prevented from having to register the voucher. Therefore, the burden of checking the voucher can be reduced.

[0146] (2) In the configuration of (1) above, the display control means may display the gift certificate and the product in different registration fields. According to the above configuration, it becomes easier for store staff to understand the gift certificates.

[0147] (3) In the configuration of (1) or (2) above, the confirmation processing means may not determine the total payment amount according to the monetary value of the voucher until the confirmation processing is completed. According to the above configuration, fraudulent acts using gift certificates can be prevented.

[0148] (4) In any of the above configurations (1) to (3), the confirmation processing means may perform control to call a store clerk on condition that the customer has registered the voucher. According to the above configuration, a store clerk can be quickly dispatched to the POS terminal device 20. This reduces the waiting time of customers waiting for a store clerk. In addition, a store clerk can be called without the customer having to perform any operation to call the store clerk.

[0149] (5) In any of the configurations (1) to (4) above, the confirmation processing means may receive confirmation from the store clerk for each voucher, and the display control means may display the vouchers for which the confirmation has been received in different display modes from those for which the confirmation has not been received. According to the above configuration, the store clerk can easily distinguish between verified and unverified vouchers, thereby reducing verification errors by the store clerk.

[0150] In addition, (6) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention, a merchandise sales data processing method, may be a merchandise sales data processing method in which a computer used in a merchandise sales data processing device executes processing including a display control step in which a computer is used in a transaction of a registered merchandise and controls the display of a voucher registered by a customer in a display mode different from that of the merchandise, and a confirmation processing step in which a confirmation process is performed to have a store clerk confirm the voucher displayed by the control in the display control step. According to the above configuration, the voucher is displayed in a different display mode from the product display mode, so the store clerk can easily identify the registered voucher. Therefore, the store clerk can simply check the voucher presented by the customer against the displayed voucher. In addition, the store clerk can be prevented from having to register the voucher. Therefore, the burden of checking the voucher can be reduced.

[0151] (7) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a program that causes a computer used in a product sales data processing device to function as a display control means that controls the display of gift certificates used in transactions of registered products and registered by customers in a display format different from that of the products, and a confirmation processing means that performs confirmation processing to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificates displayed by the control of the display control means. According to the above configuration, the voucher is displayed in a different display mode from the product display mode, so the store clerk can easily identify the registered voucher. Therefore, the store clerk can simply check the voucher presented by the customer against the displayed voucher. In addition, the store clerk can be prevented from having to register the voucher. Therefore, the burden of checking the voucher can be reduced.

[0152] (8) In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, another aspect of the present invention is a product sales data processing system that includes a registration device that registers products and a product sales data processing device that settles the payment for the products, wherein the product sales data processing device is characterized in that it is equipped with a display control means that controls the display of gift certificates used in transactions of registered products and registered by customers in a display mode different from that of the products, and a confirmation processing means that performs confirmation processing to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificates displayed by the control of the display control means. According to the above configuration, the voucher is displayed in a different display mode from the product display mode, so the store clerk can easily identify the registered voucher. Therefore, the store clerk can simply check the voucher presented by the customer against the displayed voucher. In addition, the store clerk can be prevented from having to register the voucher. Therefore, the burden of checking the voucher can be reduced.

[0153] In addition, all or part of the functions (input / output, storage, processing (including judgment)) of each device described above (POS terminal device 20, mobile terminal device 30, etc.) may be realized in a device other than the device described as the entity that executes the function.

[0154] For example, the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown) may control the display mode of the gift certificate and perform a confirmation process for confirming the gift certificate instead of the POS terminal device 20. Specifically, for example, the store controller 10 or a cloud server (not shown) may perform a settlement process (see FIG. 5) instead of the POS terminal device 20.

[0155] In the above description, the POS terminal device 20 is described as having a display control unit, a confirmation processing unit, and a settlement unit. However, all or some of these functional units may be provided in other computer devices. For example, all or some of these functional units may be provided in the store controller 10, a cloud server, or other computer devices. Furthermore, the number of computer devices provided with these functional units is not limited to multiple, and may be one. For example, all of these functional units may be provided in one computer device.

[0156] In relation to the above, the POS terminal 20 may function as a so-called thin client specialized in the input / output interface portion for display control of cash vouchers. In other words, the POS terminal 20 may accept various inputs (operation by an operator, detection by a device such as a scanner), transmit the input information (operation information, scan information, etc.) to a cloud server, receive the processing results of the cloud server based on the input information (updated screen information, device control information, etc.), and perform various outputs (display on a display unit, control of a device).

[0157] The programs for implementing the above-described POS system 1, POS terminal device 20, mobile terminal device 30, shopping system 1500, etc. may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium and loaded into a computer system for execution. The term "computer system" as used herein includes hardware such as an OS and peripheral devices. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also refers to portable media such as flexible disks, optical magnetic disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into a computer system. The term "computer-readable recording medium" also includes devices that retain the program for a certain period of time, such as volatile memory (RAM) within a computer system that acts as a server or client when the program is transmitted via a network such as the Internet or a communication line such as a telephone line. The program may also be transmitted from a computer system storing the program in a storage device to another computer system via a transmission medium or by transmission waves within the transmission medium. The term "transmission medium" used to transmit the program refers to a medium capable of transmitting information, such as a network (communication network) such as the Internet or a communication line (communication line) such as a telephone line. The program may also be used to implement part of the aforementioned functions. Furthermore, the above-mentioned functions may be realized in combination with a program already recorded in the computer system, that is, a so-called differential file (differential program). [Explanation of symbols]

[0158] Sv...cloud server, 1. POS system 10...Store Controller 11...Transaction status management device 20...POS terminal equipment 30...Mobile terminal device 201...CPU 202...ROM 203...RAM 204...Hard disk 205…Customer side display section 206...Customer side scanner 208...Card Payment Department 209...Change machine 210…Staff side display section 211...Key operation section 212…Clerk side scanner 213…Printing Department 214...Audio output unit 215…Communications Department 216...Camera 1500...Shopping System

Claims

1. a display control means for controlling the display of a list of coupons used in transactions of registered commodities and registered by a customer in a display format different from that of the commodities; a confirmation processing means for performing a confirmation process to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificates displayed in the list under the control of the display control means; Equipped with The list display is a display in which each voucher is displayed in a row, the confirmation processing means performs the confirmation processing by receiving, from a store clerk, a pressing operation of the line corresponding to the coupon to be used; A product sales data processing device characterized by:

2. A voucher registration means for registering a voucher by accepting pressing of an image corresponding to the voucher, The confirmation processing means performs control to call a store clerk on the condition that the cash voucher has been registered by the customer's pressing.

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

3. A computer used in a product sales data processing device, a display control means for controlling the display of a list of coupons used in transactions of registered commodities and registered by a customer in a display mode different from that of the registered commodities; a confirmation processing means for performing a confirmation process to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificates displayed in the list under the control of the display control means; It functions as The list display is a display in which each voucher is displayed in a row, the confirmation processing means performs the confirmation processing by receiving, from a store clerk, a pressing operation of the line corresponding to the coupon to be used; A program characterized by:

4. a registration device for registering products; a product sales data processing device that settles the payment for the product; A product sales data processing system including: The product sales data processing device includes: a display control means for controlling the display of a list of coupons used in transactions of registered commodities and registered by a customer in a display format different from that of the commodities; a confirmation processing means for performing a confirmation process to have a store clerk confirm the gift certificates displayed in the list under the control of the display control means; Equipped with The list display is a display in which each voucher is displayed in a row, the confirmation processing means performs the confirmation processing by receiving, from a store clerk, a pressing operation of the line corresponding to the coupon to be used; A product sales data processing system.

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