Accounting machine and its program

Abstract

To provide an accounting machine that promotes the use of member-specific payment methods.SOLUTION: An accounting machine enables a screen of a display part to be used as a first screen that accepts the selection of any payment method from among multiple payment methods when a member-specific payment method is not available to a payer. The accounting machine enables the screen on the display part to be used as a second screen that accepts the designation of whether or not to use the member-specific payment method when the member-specific payment method is available to the payer. The accounting machine enables the screen of the display part to be used as a third screen that accepts the payment by the member-specific payment method when the payer accepts the designation to use the member-specific payment method for the second screen. The accounting machine enables the screen of the display part to be used as the first screen when the designation of not using the member-specific payment method for the second screen is accepted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD An embodiment of the present invention relates to an accounting machine and a program therefor. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, supermarkets and other mass retailers have introduced semi-self-service checkout systems. These checkout systems separate a registration machine that registers the items purchased by customers from a cashier that receives payment for the purchased items and settles the transaction with the customer. A store clerk operates the registration machine, while the customer operates the cashier.

[0003] Some cash registers support a variety of payment methods, including not only cash but also electronic money and points. These cash registers display a payment method selection screen on a display device such as a touch panel, prompting the customer to select a payment method. Once a payment method is selected, the cash register accepts payment for the purchased items according to the selected payment method and completes the settlement process for the sales transaction.

[0004] Point payment is a method of payment in which points accumulated by customers who are point members are converted into cash. Points are generally awarded by stores for purchase transactions with point members. Therefore, points awarded to customers become a liability of the store until they are used to pay for purchases, etc. For this reason, stores want customers to use point payment, a payment method unique to point members, as much as possible when making purchase transactions with point members. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-189801 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a cash register that can promote the use of a member-specific payment method. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the payment machine includes an input unit, a display unit, a first display means, a second display means, a third display means, and a fourth display means. The input unit inputs data related to a purchase transaction with a settlement party. The display unit displays a screen related to the settlement of a sales transaction. When the member-specific payment method cannot be used by the payer, the first display means causes the display unit screen to be the first screen that accepts selection of one of multiple payment methods. When the member-specific payment method can be used by the payer, the second display means causes the display unit screen to be the second screen that accepts designation of whether or not to use the member-specific payment method. When the third display means receives designation on the second screen that the member-specific payment method will be used, the display unit screen to be the third screen that accepts payment using the member-specific payment method. When the fourth display means receives designation on the second screen that the member-specific payment method will not be used, the display unit screen to be the first screen. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic configuration of a checkout system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of a membership record. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration machine. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the payment machine. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the first information processing executed by the processor of the registration machine in accordance with the registration program. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the main steps of the member data processing in FIG. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the procedure of the second information processing executed by the processor of the payment machine in accordance with the payment program. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display of a payment method selection screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display of the point payment prompt screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display of the point payment screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing another display example of the payment method selection screen. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] Hereinafter, an embodiment of the accounting machine will be described with reference to the drawings. In this embodiment, an accounting machine used in a semi-self-service checkout system is exemplified.

[0010] [Checkout system explanation] 1 is a schematic diagram showing the general configuration of a checkout system 10 according to this embodiment. The checkout system 10 includes a registration machine 11, a checkout machine 12, a server 13, and a network 14 connecting these. There are no particular restrictions on the type of network 14, but a wired or wireless LAN (local area network) is generally used.

[0011] The registration machine 11 is operated by a store clerk 21 who plays the role of a checker. The checkout machine 12 is operated by a customer 22 who purchases goods at the store. The customer 22 who operates the checkout machine 12 to settle a sales transaction can be called a settler. Note that sales transactions are not limited to payments for purchased goods. For example, payment for services is also one form of sales transaction.

[0012] 1, the registration machine 11 is attached to a work table 23. The work table 23 has a rectangular top. A plurality of work tables 23 are arranged so that the longitudinal directions of the tops are substantially parallel to each other, thereby forming a passageway for customers 22, known as a checkout lane.

[0013] A registration machine 11 and a payment machine 12 are arranged for each checkout lane. One registration machine 11 and multiple payment machines 12 are arranged for each checkout lane. Various data signals are exchanged between the registration machines 11 and payment machines 12 arranged in the same checkout lane via a network 14. Data signals may be exchanged via a server 13, or may be exchanged without going through the server 13. Incidentally, FIG. 1 shows an example in which one registration machine 11 and two payment machines 12 are arranged for each of two checkout lanes. Three or more payment machines 12 may be arranged for one registration machine 11.

[0014] The server 13 has a member file 15. The member file 15 is a collection of member records 150 (see FIG. 2) created for each member who has become a point member. The member file 15 may be stored in a storage device built into the server 13, or in a storage device externally connected to the server 13.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the member record 150. The member record 150 includes items such as the member ID, accumulated points, and point history data. The member ID is a unique code assigned to each member to identify each point member. A point member possesses a member card on which their member ID is recorded. Alternatively, the point member has application software installed on a mobile device such as a smartphone that can display a barcode or two-dimensional code linked to their member ID. When paying for a purchased item, the point member presents their member card, mobile device, etc. to the store clerk 21 operating the registration machine 11 and notifies them of the point member's member ID. The store clerk 21 registers the member ID in the registration machine 11 and declares that the transaction is with the point member.

[0016] Accumulated points are accumulated points held by a point member identified by a member ID. By selecting point payment as the payment method, a point member can convert one of their accumulated points into, for example, 1 yen and use it to pay for the purchase. Note that the point conversion rate is not limited to "1 point = 1 yen." Also, some stores may impose restrictions that limit point payment to point members who have a certain number of points or more, such as 100 points or 1,000 points.

[0017] The point history data consists of history data of added points granted to a point member identified by a member ID and history data of subtracted points used by the point member for payment. The history data of added points includes the date on which points were granted and the number of points granted. The history data of subtracted points includes the date on which point payment was made and the number of points used.

[0018] [Registration machine configuration explanation] 3 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the registration machine 11. The registration machine 11 includes a processor 31, a main memory 32, an auxiliary storage device 33, a clock 34, a communication unit 35, a keyboard 36, a scanner 37, a touch panel 38, a customer display 39, a printer 40, a reader 41, and a system transmission path 42. The system transmission path 42 includes an address bus, a data bus, a control signal line, etc. The system transmission path 42 connects the processor 31 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0019] The registration device 11 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 31, a main memory 32, an auxiliary storage device 33, a clock 34, and a communication unit 35 via a system transmission path 42. The registration device 11 also connects devices such as a keyboard 36, a scanner 37, a touch panel 38, a customer display 39, a printer 40, and a reader 41 to the computer via the system transmission path 42.

[0020] The processor 31 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 31 controls each part to realize various functions of the registration device 11 in accordance with an operating system or an application program. The processor 31 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit).

[0021] The main memory 32 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 32 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 32 stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 32 may store data required for the processor 31 to execute processes for controlling each part in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 32 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 31 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory). The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0022] The auxiliary storage device 33 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), or an SSD (Solid State Drive) can be the auxiliary storage device 33. The auxiliary storage device 33 stores data used by the processor 31 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 31, etc. The auxiliary storage device 33 may also store the application programs described above.

[0023] The clock 34 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 31 processes the date and time kept by the clock 34 as the current date and time.

[0024] The communication unit 35 performs data communication with the server 13 and the accounting machine 12 connected via the network 14. The communication unit 35 can also perform data communication with other registration machines 11 connected via the network 14.

[0025] The keyboard 36 is an input device on which various keys necessary for inputting data relating to the products purchased by the customer are arranged.

[0026] The scanner 37 is an input device for reading code symbols such as barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc. The scanner 37 may be of a type that reads code symbols by scanning with laser light, or may be of a type that reads code symbols from images captured by an imaging device.

[0027] The touch panel 38 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 38 displays information to the store clerk 21 who operates the registration device 11, and accepts operational inputs from the store clerk 21.

[0028] The customer display 39 displays information to customers 22 whose purchase product data has been registered in the registration machine 11.

[0029] The printer 40 issues receipts by printing various characters or images on receipt paper. This type of printer 40 may be, for example, a thermal printer or a dot-matrix printer.

[0030] Reader 41 is an input device for reading the member ID of a point member. For example, if the member ID is recorded on an IC card, an IC card reader can be reader 41. For example, if the member ID is recorded on an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) medium, an RFID reader or RFID reader / writer can be reader 41. If a barcode or two-dimensional code linked to the member ID is displayed on the display of a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a scanner can be reader 41. In this case, scanner 37 may also function as reader 41.

[0031] For example, an existing POS terminal can be used as the hardware of such a registration machine 11. It should be noted that the devices connected to the registration machine 11 are not limited to the keyboard 36, scanner 37, touch panel 38, customer display 39, printer 40, and reader 41 shown in Fig. 3. Devices required for the use of the registration machine 11 may be added, or some devices may be omitted.

[0032] In the registration machine 11 configured as described above, the processor 31 functions as a product registration means 311, a member registration means 312, and a transaction output means 313. The product registration means 311 is a function that registers product sales data related to products purchased by the customer 22 who is the payer. The member registration means 312 is a function that registers data related to the point member if the customer is a point member. The transaction output means 313 is a function that creates a transaction file for the customer 22 based on the product sales data registered by the product registration means 311 and outputs the file to the accounting machine 12. The transaction file is a data file that describes product sales data related to the products purchased by the customer 22 who is the payer, as well as data on the total number of items and total amount, and transaction identification data such as the transaction number, transaction date and time, and registration machine ID. The transaction file is an example of data related to a sales transaction with the payer.

[0033] The functions of the product registration means 311, member registration means 312, and transaction output means 313 are all realized by a first information processing executed by the processor 31 in accordance with a registration program. The first information processing will be described later. The registration program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. There is no particular limitation on the method for installing the registration program in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. The registration program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or can be distributed by communication via the network 14 and installed in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33. The recording medium can be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device.

[0034] [Explanation of accounting machine configuration] 4 is a block diagram showing the main circuit configuration of the payment machine 12. The payment machine 12 includes a processor 61, main memory 62, auxiliary storage device 63, clock 64, communication unit 65, change dispenser interface 66, scanner 67, touch panel 68, printer 69, reader / writer 70, and system transmission path 71. The system transmission path 71 includes an address bus, a data bus, control signal lines, etc. The system transmission path 71 connects the processor 61 to each of the other components directly or via a signal input / output circuit, and transmits data signals exchanged between them.

[0035] The accounting machine 12 constitutes a computer by connecting a processor 61, a main memory 62, an auxiliary storage device 63, a clock 64, and a communication unit 65 via a system transmission path 71. The accounting machine 12 also connects device interfaces or devices, such as a change dispenser interface 66, a scanner 67, a touch panel 68, a printer 69, and a reader / writer 70, to the computer via the system transmission path 71.

[0036] The processor 61 corresponds to the central part of the computer. The processor 61 controls each part to realize various functions of the accounting machine 12 in accordance with an operating system or application programs. The processor 61 is, for example, a CPU.

[0037] The main memory 62 corresponds to the main storage portion of the computer. The main memory 62 includes a nonvolatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 62 stores an operating system or application programs in the nonvolatile memory area. The main memory 62 may store data required for the processor 61 to execute processes for controlling each part in either the nonvolatile or volatile memory area. The main memory 62 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 61 as appropriate. The nonvolatile memory area is, for example, ROM. The volatile memory area is, for example, RAM.

[0038] The auxiliary storage device 63 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the computer. For example, an EEPROM, HDD, or SSD can be the auxiliary storage device 63. The auxiliary storage device 63 stores data used by the processor 61 when performing various processes, data created by the processes in the processor 61, etc. The auxiliary storage device 63 may also store the application programs described above.

[0039] The clock 64 keeps track of the date and time. The processor 61 processes the date and time kept by the clock 64 as the current date and time.

[0040] The communication unit 65 performs data communication with the server 13 or the registering machine 11 connected via the network 14. The communication unit 65 can also perform data communication with other accounting machines 12 connected via the network 14. The communication unit 65 functions as an input unit for inputting the transaction file output by the transaction output means of the registering machine 11, that is, data related to the buying and selling transaction with the settler.

[0041] The change machine interface 66 constitutes an interface with an automatic change machine (not shown). The change machine interface 66 inputs amount data of coins inserted into the automatic change machine from the automatic change machine. The change machine interface 66 outputs change data from the accounting machine 12 to the automatic change machine. Having input the change data, the automatic change machine automatically dispenses coins equivalent to the change data as change.

[0042] The scanner 67 is an input device for reading code symbols such as barcodes, two-dimensional codes, etc. The scanner 67 may be of a type that reads code symbols by scanning with laser light, or may be of a type that reads code symbols from images captured by an imaging device.

[0043] The touch panel 68 is a device that combines an input device and a display device. The touch panel 68 displays information to the customer 22, who is the operator of the payment machine 12, and accepts operational inputs from the customer 22. The touch panel 68 functions as a display unit that displays a screen related to the settlement of a sales transaction. The screen related to the settlement of a sales transaction will be described later.

[0044] The printer 69 issues receipts by printing various characters or images on receipt paper. This type of printer 69 may be, for example, a thermal printer or a dot-matrix printer.

[0045] The reader / writer 70 has the function of reading data recorded on a medium such as a card or smartphone, and the function of writing data to the medium. Cards may include payment cards such as credit cards, debit cards, electronic money cards, and prepaid cards, as well as membership cards such as member's cards and point cards. The reader / writer 70 may be a magnetic, contact, or contactless device, or may include multiple types of devices.

[0046] The hardware for this type of payment machine 12 can be, for example, a POS terminal in an existing self-service checkout system, a so-called self-service POS terminal. The devices connected to the payment machine 12 are not limited to the scanner 67, touch panel 68, printer 69, and reader / writer 70 shown in Figure 4. Devices required for the intended use of the payment machine 12 may be added, or some devices may be omitted.

[0047] In the payment device 12 configured as described above, the processor 61 functions as a first display unit 611, a second display unit 612, a third display unit 613, and a fourth display unit 614. The first display unit 611 functions to display the touch panel 68 as a first screen for accepting selection of one of multiple payment methods when the member-specific payment method is unavailable to the payer. In this embodiment, the member is a points member, and the member-specific payment method is payment using points. The second display unit 612 functions to display the touch panel 68 as a second screen for accepting selection of whether or not to use the member-specific payment method when the member-specific payment method is available to the payer. The third display unit 613 functions to display the touch panel 68 as a third screen for accepting payment using the member-specific payment method when a selection of the member-specific payment method is accepted on the second screen. The fourth display unit 614 functions to display the touch panel 68 as a first screen when a selection of the member-specific payment method is not accepted on the second screen.

[0048] The functions of the first display means 611, the second display means 612, the third display means 613, and the fourth display means 614 are all realized by second information processing executed by the processor 61 in accordance with an accounting program. The second information processing will be described later. The accounting program is a type of application program stored in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. There are no particular limitations on the method for installing the accounting program into the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The accounting program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or it can be distributed via communication via the network 14 and installed into the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The form of the recording medium is not important as long as it can store the program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0049] [Explanation of the first and second information processing] Figures 5 and 6 are flow charts showing the steps of the first information processing executed by the processor 31 of the registration machine 11 in accordance with the registration program. Figure 7 is a flow chart showing the steps of the second information processing executed by the processor 61 of the payment machine 12 in accordance with the payment program. Figures 8 to 10 are examples of the first, second, and third screens displayed on the touch panel 68, which is the display device of the payment machine 12. The first screen is a payment method selection screen SCa. The second screen is a point payment promotion screen SCb. The third screen is a point payment screen SCc. The first and second information processing will be explained in detail below using each figure. Note that the processing steps explained below are just an example. The steps or content of the processing can be changed as appropriate as long as similar effects can be achieved.

[0050] First, customer 22 places the products he or she wants to purchase from the products displayed in the sales area into a shopping basket or the like and heads to the checkout lane. When customer 22 arrives at the checkout lane, store clerk 21, who acts as a checker, declares the start of registration to registration device 11. In response to this declaration, processor 31 begins a first information processing process whose procedure is shown in the flowcharts of Figures 5 and 6.

[0051] The processor 31 resets both the member flag MF and the point payment flag PF to "0" in ACT1 of FIG. 5. The member flag MF is 1-bit data for identifying whether the customer 22 is a point member. In this embodiment, the member flag MF indicating a point member is set to "1," and the member flag MF indicating a non-point member is set to "0." The point payment flag PF is 1-bit data for identifying whether point payment is possible. In this embodiment, the point payment flag PF indicating that point payment is possible is set to "1," and the point payment flag PF indicating that point payment is not possible is set to "0." The member flag MF and the point payment flag PF are stored, for example, in a register inside the processor 31. The member flag MF and the point payment flag PF may be stored in a volatile area in the main memory 32.

[0052] After completing the processing of ACT1, the processor 31 displays a registration screen on the touch panel 38 in ACT2. The registration screen is a screen in which a details area and a total area are arranged. The details area is an area for displaying the product name, quantity, unit price, and amount of the purchased product in list format in sequential numerical order. Note that the items displayed in the details area are not limited to the product name, quantity, unit price, and amount. Other items may be added, or any of the items, for example, the amount, may be omitted. The total area is an area for displaying the total of the quantities (points) and the total amount (yen) displayed in the details area. Note that the items displayed in the total area are not limited to the total of the quantities and the amount. Other items may be added, or any of the items, for example, the total of the quantities, may be omitted.

[0053] After controlling the display of the registration screen, processor 31 proceeds to ACT3. In ACT3, processor 31 determines whether or not the product has been registered. Many products are affixed with a barcode that represents a product code, which is identification information for that product. Therefore, store clerk 21 operates scanner 37 to read the barcode affixed to the product purchased by customer 22. When scanner 37 reads the barcode, the product code of the purchased product is entered into registration machine 11. On the other hand, some products, such as fresh food, may not have a barcode affixed. When the purchased product does not have a barcode affixed, store clerk 21 touches a product button corresponding to the purchased product from the group of product buttons displayed on touch panel 38. When a product button is touched, the product code of the purchased product corresponding to that product button is entered into registration machine 11. When the product code of the purchased product is entered into registration machine 11, processor 31 determines that the product has been registered.

[0054] If it cannot be determined in ACT3 that the product is registered, processor 31 proceeds to ACT4. Processor 31 checks the member flag MF in ACT4. If the member flag MF is "0", processor 31 proceeds to ACT5. Processor 31 determines whether the member is registered in ACT5. When the member ID of the point member is read by reader 41, processor 31 determines that the member is registered. If it cannot be determined that the member is registered, processor 31 returns to ACT3.

[0055] In this way, when the member flag MF is "0", processor 31 waits for product registration or member registration to be performed. If it is determined in ACT5 that member registration has been performed, i.e., if member registration is detected, processor 31 proceeds to ACT6. In ACT6, processor 31 executes member data processing.

[0056] 6 is a flowchart showing the main steps of member data processing. When accounting data processing begins, processor 31 controls communication unit 35 to send a member data request command to server 13 as ACT21. This control causes communication unit 35 to send the member data request command to server 13 via network 14. The request command includes the member ID entered during member registration.

[0057] Upon receiving the request command, the server 13 searches the member file 15 to obtain the member record 150 that describes the member ID included in the request command. The server 13 then sends a normal response command that includes the data from the member record 150 (member ID, owned points, point history data) to the payment device 12 that sent the request command. If the server 13 is unable to obtain the corresponding member record 150 from the member file 15, it sends an error response command to the payment device 12 that sent the request command.

[0058] After controlling the transmission of the request command, processor 31 waits for a response command from server 13 in ACT22. If a normal response command is received within a predetermined time after transmitting the request command, processor 31 proceeds to ACT23. In ACT23, processor 31 reads data from member record 150 from the normal response command. Furthermore, processor 31 obtains the owned points Pa from the data in member record 150 in ACT24.

[0059] In ACT25, the processor 31 checks whether the held points Pa are equal to or greater than the threshold points Px. The threshold points Px is the minimum number of points that can be used to pay for a purchase. For example, in an operation where even one point can be used to pay for a purchase, the threshold points Px is "1." For example, in an operation where 1,000 points must be held in order to be used to pay for a purchase, the threshold points Px is "1,000." In this way, the threshold points Px can be any value equal to or greater than "1," and the value to be set is determined, for example, by the store's operations.

[0060] In ACT 25, if the owned points Pa are equal to or greater than the threshold points Px, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 26. In ACT 26, the processor 31 sets the point payment flag PF to "1." On the other hand, if the owned points Pa are less than the threshold points Px, the processor 31 skips the processing of ACT 26. Therefore, the owned points Pa remain at "0."

[0061] After completing or skipping the processing of ACT26, processor 31 proceeds to ACT27. Processor 31 stores the owned point data in ACT27. The owned point data includes the owned points Pa obtained from member record 150 and the current point payment flag PF. Furthermore, if an analysis of the point history data reveals that there are points that will expire within, for example, one month, the owned point data includes the points scheduled to expire and the scheduled expiration date. The owned point data is stored in a point data memory formed in a volatile memory area of ​​main memory 32.

[0062] After completing the processing of ACT27, processor 31 proceeds to ACT28. In ACT28, processor 31 sets member flag MF to "1". Processor 31 then exits member data processing. In this way, when a normal response command is received from server 13 in response to the member data request command, member flag MF is set to "1".

[0063] On the other hand, if a normal response command is not received from server 13 within a predetermined time in ACT22, processor 31 notifies the user that the member ID is invalid in ACT29. For example, processor 31 may display a message on touch panel 68 stating, "Member ID not recognized," to notify the user that the member ID is invalid. Processor 31 then exits member data processing. In this way, if a normal response command is not received from server 13 in response to the member data request command, member flag MF remains at "0."

[0064] Returning to the explanation of Figure 5. After the member data processing is completed, processor 31 returns to ACT 3. Therefore, if the member flag MF becomes "1" as a result of the member data processing, processor 31 does not proceed to ACT 5 in ACT 4 but returns to ACT 3. In other words, after the member ID is recognized and the data of the point member identified by that member ID is registered, processor 31 waits for product registration to be performed.

[0065] If it is determined in ACT3 that a product has been registered, i.e., if product registration is detected, processor 31 proceeds to ACT7. In ACT7, processor 31 executes product sales data processing. Specifically, processor 31 searches the product file to obtain product data such as the product name and unit price of the product identified by the product code input via scanner 37 or touch panel 38. Processor 31 then registers the product sales data, including items such as the product code, product name, unit price, sales quantity, and sales amount, in transaction memory. Transaction memory is part of the volatile memory area in main memory 32. Processor 31 updates the data in the details area and total area of ​​the registration screen based on the data in the transaction memory.

[0066] After completing the product sales data processing, processor 31 checks in ACT8 whether a command to output a subtotal has been issued. A command to output a subtotal is issued by pressing a subtotal key. The subtotal key may be a hard key located on keyboard 36, or a soft key located on the registration screen. If a command to output a subtotal has not been issued, processor 31 returns to ACT3. Processor 31 repeats the processing of ACT3 to ACT7 until a command to output a subtotal is issued. Therefore, if a product has been registered, processor 31 executes product sales data processing. If a member has been registered, processor 31 executes member data processing.

[0067] When the store clerk 21 has finished registering all of the purchased items of the customer 22, he / she inputs a subtotal key. When the input of the subtotal key indicates that a subtotal should be output, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 9. In ACT 9, the processor 31 causes the touch panel 38 to display the subtotal screen.

[0068] The subtotal screen is a screen that has a total area, and also has a subtotal discount key, a subtotal discount key, a back key, and a payment key. The total area is the same as the total area on the registration screen. The subtotal discount key and the subtotal discount key are operators that the clerk 21 inputs to instruct a discount or reduction on the total amount. The back key is an operator that the clerk 21 inputs to instruct returning to the previous registration screen. The payment key is an operator that the clerk 21 inputs to instruct payment of the price. Note that at least one of the subtotal discount key, the subtotal discount key, the back key, and the payment key may be a hard key assigned to the keyboard 36.

[0069] After checking the subtotal screen, the sales clerk 21 registers all of the purchased items of the customer 22, and if a subtotal discount or discount is not required, enters a payment key. If a subtotal discount or discount is required, the sales clerk 21 enters a subtotal discount key or discount key. If there are any unregistered purchased items remaining, the sales clerk 21 enters a return key.

[0070] Processor 31, which has controlled the display of the subtotal screen, checks in ACT10 whether the back key has been pressed. If the back key has not been pressed, processor 31 proceeds to ACT11. Processor 31 checks in ACT11 whether the payment key has been pressed. If the payment key has not been pressed, processor 31 returns to ACT10. In this way, processor 31 waits in ACT10 and ACT11 for the back key to be pressed or the payment key to be pressed. Note that if the subtotal discount key or subtotal discount key is pressed in this standby state, although not shown, processor 31 performs a subtotal discount process or a subtotal discount process. Thereafter, processor 31 returns to the standby state of ACT10 and ACT11.

[0071] If the store clerk 21 presses the back key during the standby state of ACT10 and ACT11, the processor 31 returns to ACT2. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 38 to the registration screen. Then, the processor 31 executes the processes from ACT3 onward in the same manner as described above.

[0072] If the payment key is entered by the store clerk 21 during the standby state of ACT10 and ACT11, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT12. The processor 31 creates a transaction file in ACT12. That is, the processor 31 creates a data file that describes the product sales data of each purchased product registered in the transaction memory, the total number of items, the total amount, and transaction identification data such as the transaction number, transaction date and time, and registered machine ID.

[0073] Processor 31 checks the member flag MF in ACT13. If the member flag MF is set to "1", that is, if the payer is registered as a point member, processor 31 proceeds to ACT14. Processor 31 adds the retained point data to the transaction file in ACT14. On the other hand, if the member flag MF is reset to "0", that is, if the payer is not registered as a point member, processor 31 skips the processing of ACT14. Therefore, the retained point data is not added to the transaction file.

[0074] After completing or skipping the processing of ACT14, the processor 31 sends the data of the transaction file to the payment device 12 in ACT15. That is, if the payer is registered as a point member, the processor 31 sends the transaction file with the retained point data added to the payment device 12. If the payer is not registered as a point member, the processor 31 sends the transaction file without the retained point data added to the payment device 12.

[0075] The transaction file is sent to the accounting machine 12 according to the following rules, for example: <Rule 1> Priorities are set in advance among the multiple payment machines 12, and the registration machine 11 sends the transaction file to the payment machine 12 with the highest priority. At this time, payment machines 12 that are capable of processing payments receive the transaction file. For example, a payment machine 12 that is not capable of processing payments because it is busy transfers the transaction file to a payment machine 12 with a lower priority. <Rule 2> Each payment machine 12 notifies the registration machine 11 whether it is in a state where payment processing is possible or not. The registration machine 11 selects a payment machine 12 that is capable of payment processing using a predetermined algorithm and transmits a transaction file to that payment machine 12. <Rule 3> Each payment machine 12 notifies the registration machine 11 whether it is in a state where payment processing is possible or impossible. The registration machine 11 displays a list of payment machines 12 that are capable of payment processing on the touch panel 38. When the store clerk 21 operates the operation input to specify one of the payment machines 12 from the list, the transaction file is sent to the specified payment machine 12. The rules for determining the destination of the transaction file are not limited to the above-mentioned rules 1, 2, and 3. The destination of the transaction file may be determined according to other rules.

[0076] After completing transmission of the transaction file, processor 31 proceeds to ACT 16. In ACT 16, processor 31 displays information indicating the accounting machine 12 to which the transaction file has been transmitted on touch panel 38. With this, processor 31 ends the first information processing.

[0077] Here, the processor 31 cooperates with the keyboard 36, scanner 37, or touch panel 38 to execute the processes of ACT3 and ACT7 in Fig. 5, thereby realizing the function of product registration means 311. The processor 31 cooperates with the reader 41 to execute the processes of ACT5 and ACT6 in Fig. 5, more specifically, the processes of ACT21 to ACT28 in Fig. 6, thereby realizing the function of member registration means 312. The processor 31 cooperates with the communication unit 35 to execute the processes of ACT11 to ACT15 in Fig. 5, thereby realizing the function of transaction output means.

[0078] After entering the payment key, the store clerk 21 instructs the customer 22 to make payment at the payment machine 12 indicated by the information displayed on the touch panel 38. The customer 22 then goes to the location of the payment machine 12 indicated by the store clerk 21 and operates that payment machine 12 to pay for the purchased items.

[0079] For example, when the processor 61 of the accounting machine 12 has completed a transaction with the previous customer and is ready to process the settlement, it starts the second information processing whose procedure is shown in the flowchart of Figure 7. In ACT 31, the processor 61 waits for the input of a transaction file. In this waiting state, when the processor 61 receives a transaction file via the communication unit 65, it proceeds to ACT 32. In ACT 62, the processor 61 checks whether the transaction is with a point member. That is, the processor 61 writes the owned point data into the transaction file. but If the transaction file contains the added point data, the transaction is recognized as a sale and purchase transaction with a point member. but If it is not added, it will be determined that the transaction is not with a points member.

[0080] If the transaction is not with a point member, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 33. In ACT 33, the processor 61 causes the touch panel 68 to display a payment method selection screen SCa (see FIG. 8).

[0081] FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the payment method selection screen SCa. In this embodiment, the payment method selection screen SCa is a screen on which a cash button BTa, a credit button BTb, an electronic money button BTc, a points button BTd, and a store clerk call button BTe are arranged. The payment method selection screen SCa also includes a display area ARa for the total points and total amount. The cash button BTa is an operator input by the customer 22 to instruct the customer 22 to pay for the purchased items with cash. The credit button BTb is an operator input by the customer 22 to instruct the customer 22 to pay for the purchased items with a credit card. The electronic money button BTc is an operator input by the customer 22 to instruct the customer 22 to pay for the purchased items with electronic money. The points button BTd is an operator input by the customer 22 to instruct the customer 22 to pay for the purchased items with their accumulated points. The store clerk call button BTe is an operator input by the customer 22 to call a store clerk.

[0082] The cash button BTa, credit button BTb, electronic money button BTc, and point button BTd function as selection means for selecting each payment method. The payment methods are not limited to cash payment, credit card payment, electronic money payment, and point payment. Any two or three types may be available, or a different payment method may be selectable. Thus, the payment method selection screen SCa is an example of a first screen that accepts the selection of one of a plurality of payment methods. Here, the processor 61 executes the processing of ACT33 in cooperation with the touch panel 68, thereby realizing the function of the first display means 611.

[0083] After checking the payment method selection screen SCa, the customer 22 presses the button corresponding to the desired payment method. That is, a customer 22 who wishes to pay in cash presses the cash button BTa. A customer 22 who wishes to pay by credit card presses the credit button BTb. A customer 22 who wishes to pay with electronic money presses the electronic money button BTc. A customer 22 who wishes to pay with points presses the points button BTd.

[0084] With the screen of touch panel 68 set to payment method selection screen SCa, processor 61 waits for a payment method to be selected from among multiple payment methods in ACT 34. When the cash button BTa, credit button BTb, electronic money button BTc, or point button BTd is pressed to select a payment method, processor 61 proceeds to ACT 35. Processor 61 executes settlement processing using the selected payment method in ACT 35.

[0085] For example, when the cash button BTa is pressed, i.e., when cash payment is selected, the processor 61 executes cash payment processing. The cash payment processing is a process of subtracting the total amount from the payment amount, which is the total amount of cash inserted into the automatic change machine. For example, when the credit button BTb is pressed, i.e., when credit card payment is selected, the processor 61 executes credit card payment processing. The credit card payment processing is a process of authenticating the credit card read by the reader / writer 70 and, if approved, subtracting the total amount from the payment amount by credit card. For example, when the electronic money button BTc is pressed, i.e., when electronic money payment is selected, the processor 61 executes electronic money payment processing. The electronic money payment processing is a process of subtracting the total amount from the payment amount, which is the balance of the electronic money medium read by the reader / writer 70. For example, when the points button BTd is pressed, i.e., when points payment is selected, the processor 61 executes points payment processing. The points payment processing is a process of subtracting the total amount from the payment amount obtained by converting used points into cash at a predetermined conversion rate.

[0086] When the payment process is completed in ACT 35, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 36. In ACT 36, the processor 61 checks whether there is a remaining balance in the total amount because the payment amount was insufficient. If there is a remaining balance, the processor 61 returns to ACT 33. That is, the processor 61 displays the payment method selection screen SCa again on the touch panel 68 and waits for a payment method to be selected. At this time, the total amount in the display area ARa becomes the remaining balance.

[0087] If there is no remaining balance in the total amount in ACT36, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT37. In ACT37, the processor 61 controls the printer 69 to print and issue a transaction receipt. The transaction receipt prints the transaction number, transaction date and time, registered machine ID, product sales data, total number of items, total amount, etc., written in the transaction file. Once the transaction receipt is issued, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT38. In ACT38, the processor 61 sets the screen of the touch panel 68 to a transaction completion screen. The transaction completion screen is not particularly limited, but it is preferable that it be a screen that displays guidance required at the end of the transaction, such as "Please be careful not to forget to take the receipt." With this, the processor 61 ends the second information processing for settling a sales transaction with a customer 22 who is not a point member.

[0088] In this way, when a customer 22 who is not a point member moves to the cash register 12, a payment method selection screen SCa is displayed on the touch panel 68. Therefore, the customer 22 can settle the purchase transaction by himself / herself by selecting the desired payment method and paying for the purchased product according to that payment method.

[0089] In ACT32, the owned point data was added to the transaction file, and if the transaction is with a point member, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT39. In ACT39, the processor 61 checks the point payment flag PF of the owned point data. If the point payment flag PF is "0", that is, if the transaction is with a point member who cannot use point payment because the owned points Pa are less than the threshold points Px, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT33 described above. That is, the processor 61 sets the screen of the touch panel 68 to the payment method selection screen SCa. Thereafter, the processor 61 executes the processing of ACT34 to ACT38 in the same manner as described above.

[0090] In this way, even if a customer 22 is a point member but cannot use point payment because their accumulated points Pa are less than the threshold points Px, for example, if their accumulated points Pa are "0," the screen on the touch panel 68 will display the payment method selection screen SCa. The customer 22 selects the desired payment method from the payment method selection screen SCa and pays for the purchased goods according to that payment method. In this way, the customer 22 can settle the purchase transaction themselves.

[0091] In ACT 39, if the point payment flag PF is "1", that is, if the transaction is with a point member who can use point payment because the owned points Pa are equal to or greater than the threshold points Px, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 40. In ACT 40, the processor 61 displays the point payment promotion screen SCb (see FIG. 9) on the touch panel 68.

[0092] 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the point payment prompt screen SCb. In this embodiment, the point payment prompt screen SCb displays information about the owned points, the points scheduled to expire, and the scheduled expiration date included in the owned point data. The point payment prompt screen SCb also displays a "Yes" button BTf to instruct the user to use point payment, and a "No" button BTg to instruct the user not to use point payment.

[0093] The point payment prompting screen SCb is displayed superimposed on the payment method selection screen SCa, as shown in Fig. 9. That is, the point payment prompting screen SCb is displayed on the touch panel 68 in the form of a pop-up window.

[0094] In this way, the point payment prompt screen SCb is an example of a second screen that accepts a designation of whether or not to use point payment, which is a payment method unique to a member. Here, the processor 61 realizes the function of the second display means 612 by executing the process of ACT40 in cooperation with the touch panel 68.

[0095] The customer 22 who has checked the point payment promotion screen SCb presses the "Yes" button BTf if he wishes to use point payment, and presses the "No" button BTg if he does not wish to use point payment.

[0096] The processor 61 that controlled the display of the point payment promotion screen SCb checks whether or not a point payment has been instructed as ACT41. When the processor 61 detects that the "Yes" button BTf has been pressed, it determines that a point payment has been instructed. When the processor 61 detects that the "No" button BTg has been pressed, it determines that a point payment has not been instructed.

[0097] If the use of points payment is instructed in ACT 41, that is, if the "Yes" button BTf is pressed, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 42. In ACT 42, the processor 61 displays a points payment screen SCc (see FIG. 10) on the touch panel 68.

[0098] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the point payment screen SCc. In this embodiment, the point payment screen SCc is a screen that arranges a display area ARb of owned points, a display area ARc of used points, a numeric keypad TK for inputting used points, a confirm button BTh, and a cancel button TBi. The display area ARb displays the owned points included in the owned point data. The display area ARc displays the used points input by operating the numeric keypad TK. Note that the used points are any value equal to or less than the owned points. It is not possible to input a use point that exceeds the owned points. The confirm button BTh is an operator input by the customer to confirm the used points. The cancel button BTi is an operator input by the customer to cancel the point payment.

[0099] In this way, the point payment screen SCc is an example of a third screen that accepts payment by point payment, which is a payment method unique to members. Here, the processor 61 determines YES in ACT41 and executes the processing of ACT42 in cooperation with the touch panel 68, thereby realizing the function of the third display means 613.

[0100] The processor 61, which has controlled the display of the point payment screen SCc, checks in ACT43 whether the Cancel button BTi has been pressed. If the Cancel button BTi has not been pressed, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT44. The processor 61 checks in ACT44 whether the Confirm button BTh has been pressed. If the Confirm button BTh has not been pressed, the processor 61 returns to ACT43. In this way, the processor 61 waits for the Cancel button BTi or the Confirm button BTh to be pressed in ACT43 and ACT44.

[0101] If the cancel button BTi is pressed during the standby state of ACT43 and ACT44, the processor 61 proceeds to the above-mentioned ACT33. That is, the processor 61 erases the point payment screen SCc and displays the payment method selection screen SCa on the touch panel 68. Thereafter, the processor 61 executes the processes of ACT34 to ACT38 in the same manner as described above.

[0102] In this way, even if customer 22, a point member whose owned points Pa are equal to or greater than the threshold points Px and who is eligible for point payment, declares that he or she will use point payment, by pressing the cancel button BTi on the point payment screen SCc, the screen on touch panel 68 transitions to the payment method selection screen SCa. Customer 22 selects the desired payment method from the payment method selection screen SCa and pays for the purchased goods according to that payment method. In this way, customer 22 can settle the purchase transaction himself or herself.

[0103] If the Confirm button BTh is pressed during the standby state of ACT 43 and ACT 44, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 45. The processor 61 executes a point payment process in ACT 45. The point payment process is a process in which the total amount is subtracted from the payment amount obtained by converting the usage points entered in the display area ARc into cash at a predetermined conversion rate.

[0104] After completing the point payment process in ACT45, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT46. In ACT46, the processor 61 checks whether there is a balance in the total amount because the amount paid using points was insufficient. If there is a balance, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT33 described above. That is, the processor 61 displays the payment method selection screen SCa on the screen of the touch panel 68. At this time, the total amount in the display area ARa becomes the remaining amount. Thereafter, the processor 61 executes the processes in ACT34 to ACT38 in the same manner as described above.

[0105] Therefore, a customer 22 who is a point member and has used point payment but has a balance remaining in the payment amount because of insufficient points can settle the purchase transaction by himself by paying the remaining amount by another payment method.

[0106] If there is no remaining balance in the total amount in ACT46, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT37 described above. The processor 61 controls the printer 69 to print and issue a transaction receipt. The processor 61 also displays a transaction completion screen on the screen of the touch panel 68. With this, the processor 61 ends the second information processing for settling the sales transaction with the point member customer 22.

[0107] In this way, when a customer 22 who is a point member and can use point payment moves to the cash register 12, the point payment promotion screen SCb is displayed on the touch panel 68. This makes it easier for the customer 22 to use point payment, and they will actively use point payment.

[0108] If the use of points for payment is not instructed in ACT41, that is, if the "No" button BTg is pressed, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT33 described above. That is, the processor 61 causes the screen of the touch panel 68 to display the payment method selection screen SCa. Thereafter, the processor 61 executes the processes of ACT34 to ACT38 in the same manner as described above.

[0109] The payment method selection screen SCa is an example of a first screen that accepts the selection of one of a plurality of payment methods. Here, the processor 61 determines NO in ACT41 and executes the process of ACT33 in cooperation with the touch panel 68, thereby realizing the function as a fourth display means.

[0110] In this way, even if the customer 22 is a point member whose owned points Pa are equal to or greater than the threshold points Px and who is eligible to use point payment, if the customer 22 does not use point payment, the screen on the touch panel 68 becomes the payment method selection screen SCa. The customer 22 selects the desired payment method from the payment method selection screen SCa and pays for the purchased goods according to that payment method. In this way, the customer 22 can settle the purchase transaction by himself.

[0111] [Explanation of the effectiveness of the cashier] As described above in detail, when a customer 22 who can use point payment moves to the cashier 12, the point payment promotion screen SCb is displayed on the touch panel 68. Therefore, it is expected that the customer 22 will actively use point payment. Moreover, the point payment promotion screen SCb is displayed in the form of a pop-up window. Therefore, the customer 22 can be strongly encouraged to use point payment. As a result, the frequency of use of point payment increases, which satisfies the store's desire to encourage customers to use point payment as much as possible.

[0112] If the customer 22 does not want to use point payment, he / she presses the "No" button BTg on the point payment prompt screen SCb. This causes the screen on the touch panel 68 to transition to the payment method selection screen SCa. This allows the customer 22 to pay for the purchased items using the payment method of his / her choice.

[0113] [Variations] 7, if the point payment flag PF is reset to "0", or if the "No" button BTg on the point payment promotion screen SCb is pressed in ACT 41, the customer 22 will not use point payment. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 11, the point button BTd on the payment method selection screen SCa may be erased or grayed out to disable it.

[0114] The payment machine 12 is not limited to those applied to semi-self-service checkout systems. For example, a POS terminal in a full-self-service checkout system, a so-called self-service POS terminal, may incorporate the functions of the first display unit 611, second display unit 612, third display unit 613, and fourth display unit 614 to promote the use of points payment. In this case, the input unit is an input device of the self-service POS terminal, such as a scanner, keyboard, or touch panel. The display unit is the display of the self-service POS terminal.

[0115] In the above embodiment, the member is a point member, and the member-specific payment method is point payment. However, the member is not limited to a point member. For example, if the payer is a credit card member who owns a store's own house credit card, it is preferable to encourage payment of the price using the house credit card. Therefore, the member may be a credit card member, and the member-specific payment method may be credit card payment. In this case, the second display means displays a usage selection screen for the house credit card.

[0116] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope of the invention and the scope of the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims. The inventions described in the original claims of this application are set forth below. [1] A payment machine comprising: an input unit for inputting data relating to a sales transaction with a payer; a display unit for displaying a screen relating to the settlement of the sales transaction; a first display means for changing the screen of the display unit to a first screen for accepting selection of one of a plurality of payment methods when the payer is unable to use a member-specific payment method; a second display means for changing the screen of the display unit to a second screen for accepting designation of whether or not to use the member-specific payment method when the payer is able to use the member-specific payment method; a third display means for changing the screen of the display unit to a third screen for accepting payment by the member-specific payment method when designation of using the member-specific payment method is accepted on the second screen; and a fourth display means for changing the screen of the display unit to the first screen when designation of not using the member-specific payment method is accepted on the second screen. [2] The accounting machine described in appendix [1], wherein the second display means displays the second screen as a pop-up window superimposed on the first screen, and the fourth display means erases the second screen, thereby making the screen of the display unit the first screen. [3] The first screen displayed by the fourth display means is a screen that accepts the selection of a payment method from among payment methods other than the member-specific payment method on the screen of the display unit, as described in Appendix [1]. [4] A payment machine as described in any one of appendices [1] to [3], wherein the member-specific payment method is payment by using the points held by the settlor, and the first display means sets the screen of the display unit to the first screen when the data regarding the sales transaction input via the input unit does not include data indicating that the points held can be used, and the second display means sets the screen of the display unit to the second screen when the data regarding the sales transaction input via the input unit includes data indicating that the points held can be used. [5] A payment machine as described in any one of appendices [1] to [3], wherein the member-specific payment method is payment by using the points held by the settlor, and the first display means changes the screen of the display unit to the first screen when the data regarding the sales transaction input through the input unit does not contain a predetermined number of points or more, and the second display means changes the screen of the display unit to the second screen when the data regarding the sales transaction input through the input unit contains a predetermined number of points or more. [6] A program for causing an accounting machine computer having an input unit for inputting data related to a sales transaction with a settler and a display unit for displaying a screen related to the settlement of the sales transaction to function as: a first display means for changing the screen of the display unit to a first screen for accepting selection of one of a plurality of payment methods when the settler cannot use a member-specific payment method; a second display means for changing the screen of the display unit to a second screen for accepting designation of whether or not to use the member-specific payment method when the settler can use a member-specific payment method; a third display means for changing the screen of the display unit to a third screen for accepting payment by the member-specific payment method when designation of using the member-specific payment method is accepted on the second screen; and a fourth display means for changing the screen of the display unit to the first screen when designation of not using the member-specific payment method is accepted on the second screen. [Explanation of symbols]

[0117] 10...Checkout system, 11...Registration machine, 12...Accounting machine, 13...Server, 14...Network, 15...Member file, 21...Store clerk, 22...Customer, 31,61...Processor, 32,62...Main memory, 33,63...Auxiliary storage device, 34,64...Clock, 35,65...Communication unit, 36...Keyboard, 37,67...Scanner, 38,68...Touch panel, 39...Customer display, 40,69...Printer, 41...reader, 42, 71...system transmission path, 66...change machine interface, 70...reader / writer, 311...product registration means, 312...membership registration means, 313...transaction output means, 611...first display means, 612...second display means, 613...third display means, 614...fourth display means, SCa...payment method selection screen (first screen), SCb...point payment promotion screen (second screen), SCc...point payment screen (third screen).

Claims

1. an input unit for inputting data relating to a buying and selling transaction with a settlement party; a display unit that displays a screen related to the settlement of the buying and selling transaction; a first display means for displaying a first screen on the display unit for accepting selection of one of a plurality of payment methods when the settlement person is unable to use the member-specific payment method; a second display means for displaying a second screen on the display unit when the settlor can use a member-specific payment method, the second screen being a pop-up window that accepts a designation as to whether or not to use the member-specific payment method, and the second screen being superimposed on the first screen; a third display means for, when a designation to use the payment method specific to the member is accepted on the second screen, changing the screen of the display unit to a third screen for accepting payment by the payment method specific to the member; a fourth display means for erasing the second screen when a designation that the member-specific payment method is not to be used is received on the second screen, thereby causing the screen of the display unit to become the first screen; An accounting machine equipped with the above.

2. 2. The payment machine according to claim 1, wherein the first screen displayed by said fourth display means is a screen for accepting selection of any payment method from among payment methods other than said member-specific payment method.

3. The payment method specific to the member is payment by using the points held by the payer, the first display means sets the screen of the display unit to the first screen when the data relating to the buying and selling transaction input via the input unit does not include data indicating that the owned points can be used; 3. The payment machine according to claim 1, wherein the second display means changes the screen of the display unit to the second screen when data regarding a sales transaction input through the input unit includes data indicating that the held points can be used.

4. The payment method specific to the member is payment by using the points held by the payer, the first display means sets the screen of the display unit to the first screen when the data regarding the buying and selling transaction input via the input unit does not include a predetermined value or more of owned points; 3. The accounting machine according to claim 1, wherein the second display means changes the screen of the display unit to the second screen when the data regarding the buying and selling transaction input through the input unit includes owned points equal to or greater than the predetermined value.

5. An accounting computer having an input unit for inputting data relating to a trading transaction with a settlement party and a display unit for displaying a screen relating to the settlement of the trading transaction, a first display means for displaying a first screen on the display unit for accepting selection of one of a plurality of payment methods when the settlement person is unable to use the member-specific payment method; a second display means for displaying, when the settlor can use a member-specific payment method, a second screen on the display unit for accepting designation of whether or not to use the member-specific payment method, and for displaying the second screen as a pop-up window superimposed on the first screen; a third display means for, when a designation to use the member-specific payment method is accepted on the second screen, changing the screen of the display unit to a third screen for accepting payment by the member-specific payment method; and a fourth display means for erasing the second screen when a designation that the member-specific payment method is not to be used is received on the second screen, thereby causing the screen of the display unit to become the first screen; A program to function as a

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