Checkout system, registration machine, and program

Abstract

To make it possible to efficiently charge electronic money in a semi-self checkout system.SOLUTION: A registration machine accepts a charge declaration of electronic money. The registration machine reads identification information of an electronic money medium in response to receiving the charge declaration. The registration machine outputs the identification information of the electronic money medium to an accounting machine. The accounting machine inputs the identification information output from the registration machine and specifies an amount to be charged. The accounting machine detects a deposit of cash corresponding to the charge amount. The accounting machine controls the charge amount to be added to a balance of electronic money managed by the electronic money medium identified by the identification information in response to the deposit of cash corresponding to the charge amount.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a checkout system and a registration method for the system. machine, You can also register your computer. Machine and This is about a program to make it function as such. [Background technology]

[0002] In recent years, semi-self-service checkout systems have been introduced in supermarkets and other mass retailers. These checkout systems separate a registration machine that registers the items purchased by a customer 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. In recent years, an increasing number of customers wish to pay for their transactions with electronic money. As a result, semi-self-service checkout systems that support electronic money payments are already in practical use.

[0003] Electronic money users generally charge their electronic money using electronic money media such as IC cards or smartphones. When paying, the user has the accounting machine read the information on the electronic money media. By doing so, the accounting machine deducts the amount equivalent to the payment from the amount charged to the electronic money, completing the electronic money payment. For this reason, users must charge electronic money in advance, at least to the amount of the payment.

[0004] There are two ways for users to charge electronic money in a store: using a dedicated charging machine or using a checkout system's registration or cash register. However, from the store's perspective, using a dedicated charging machine poses problems, such as the need for installation space and the associated equipment costs. Charging electronic money using a registration machine places a burden on store staff and reduces customer handling at the registration machine, thereby reducing the benefits of introducing a semi-self-service system. Charging electronic money using a cash register not only involves customers who have registered their purchases at the registration machine, but also customers who simply want to charge their electronic money. This can lead to the inconvenience of customers who have registered their purchases at the registration machine being unable to proceed to checkout because the cash register is fully occupied with customers charging their electronic money. In light of these circumstances, a system that allows users to efficiently charge electronic money in a semi-self-service checkout system is desired. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-051782 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 technology that enables efficient charging of electronic money in a semi-self-service checkout system. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the checkout system separates the register and the cashier. The register includes a declaration receiving means, a reading means, and Inquiry means and waiting means; The electronic money medium identification information is read in response to the receipt of the electronic money charge declaration. The inquiry means inquires about the balance of the electronic money medium identified by the identification information read by the reading means. The waiting means displays the balance inquired by the inquiry means, and then waits for a selection input as to whether or not to charge. The output means is In response to receiving your selection to charge, Identification information of the electronic money medium is output to the accounting machine. The accounting machine is equipped with a designation means, a detection means, and a control means. The designation means inputs the identification information output from the registration machine and designates the charge amount. The detection means detects the deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount. In response to the deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount, the control means controls so that the charge amount is added to the balance of electronic money managed by the electronic money medium identified by the identification information. [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 an electronic money 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 procedure of the charge acceptance process in the first information processing. [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 on the registration screen. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display of a balance inquiry screen. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display on the payment machine transmission screen. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display of the destination notification screen. [Figure 12]FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the first payment method selection screen. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the second payment method selection screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the charge amount designation screen. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a display of the charge amount receiving screen. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the input completion screen. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of issuing a charge receipt. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] An embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. This embodiment is a semi-self-service checkout system in which the registration machine and the accounting machine are separated, and the registration machine and accounting machine are configured to allow electronic money users to efficiently charge their electronic money at the store.

[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 an electronic money file 15. The electronic money file 15 is a collection of electronic money records 150 (see FIG. 2) created for each electronic money user. The electronic money file 15 may be stored in a storage device built into the server 13, or may be stored in a storage device externally connected to the server 13.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the main data structure of the electronic money record 150. The electronic money record 150 includes items such as a user ID, balance, expiration date, and update history data. The user ID is a unique ID assigned to each user of electronic money. The user owns an electronic money card that records information linked to their own user ID. Alternatively, the user has installed an electronic money app (application software) capable of displaying a barcode or two-dimensional code linked to their own user ID on a mobile device such as a smartphone.

[0016] The balance is the amount of electronic money held by the user. The user can increase the balance up to the upper limit by appropriately charging electronic money.

[0017] The expiration date is the last day that electronic money can be used. Most electronic money has an expiration date, for example, 5 or 10 years from the date of its last use. The expiration date is updated every time the electronic money is used to pay for something, starting from the date of that use. If no expiration date is set for the electronic money, the expiration date data is omitted.

[0018] The update history data consists of usage history data of purchase and sale transactions paid using electronic money and charge history data of electronic money recharge. The usage history data includes the date of payment and the amount paid. The charge history data includes the date of recharge of electronic money and the amount recharged.

[0019] [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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] 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).

[0022] 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).

[0023] 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.

[0024] 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.

[0025] 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.

[0026] The keyboard 36 is an input device on which various keys are arranged that are necessary for inputting data relating to the products that the customer purchases.

[0027] 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.

[0028] 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.

[0029] The customer display 39 displays information to customers 22 whose purchase data has been registered in the registration machine 11.

[0030] 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.

[0031] The reader 41 is an input device for reading the user ID of a user who uses electronic money. For example, if information linked to the user ID is recorded on an IC card, an IC card reader can serve as the reader 41. For example, if information linked to the user ID is recorded on an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) medium, an RFID reader or RFID reader / writer can serve as the reader 41. If a barcode or two-dimensional code linked to the user ID is displayed on the display of a mobile terminal such as a smartphone, a scanner can serve as the reader 41. In this case, the scanner 37 may also function as the reader 41.

[0032] 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.

[0033] In the registration machine 11 having such a configuration, the processor 31 has the functions of a declaration receiving means 311, a reading means 312, an output means 313, an inquiry means 314, a waiting means 315 and an alarm means 316 to enable electronic money users to efficiently charge electronic money at stores.

[0034] The declaration receiving means 311 is a function that receives a declaration of charging electronic money. The reading means 312 is a function that reads the identification information of the electronic money medium in response to receiving the charge declaration. The electronic money medium is, for example, an IC card, an RFID medium, or an information terminal such as a smartphone. The identification information is a user ID. The output means 313 is a function that outputs the identification information of the electronic money medium to the accounting machine 12.

[0035] The inquiry means 314 has a function of inquiring of the server 13 having the electronic money file 15 about the balance of the electronic money medium identified by the identification information read by the reading means 312. The waiting means 315 has a function of waiting for a selection input as to whether or not to charge after displaying the balance obtained by inquiry by the inquiry means 314 on a display device. The display device may be both the touch panel 38 and the customer display 39, or may be either one of them.

[0036] The notification means 316 has a function of notifying the payment machine 12 that has output the identification information of the electronic money medium by the output means 313. A payment machine number is set for each payment machine 12 as its own unique identification information. The notification means 316, for example, displays the payment machine number of the payment machine 12 that has output the identification information of the electronic money medium on a display device, notifying the store clerk 21 or customer 22 of the payment machine 12 to which the identification information was output.

[0037] The functions of the declaration receiving means 311, reading means 312, output means 313, inquiry means 314, standby means 315, and notification means 316 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. The method for installing the registration program in the main memory 32 or the auxiliary storage device 33 is not particularly limited. 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 form of the recording medium is not important as long as it can store a program and is readable by the device, such as a CD-ROM or memory card.

[0038] [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.

[0039] 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.

[0040] 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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.

[0043] 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.

[0044] 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.

[0045] 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.

[0046] 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.

[0047] 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] In the payment machine 12 configured as above, the processor 61 has the functions of a designation means 611, a detection means 612, a control means 613 and an issuing means 614 to enable electronic money users to efficiently charge electronic money at stores.

[0052] The designation means 611 has a function of inputting the identification information output from the registration machine 11 and designating the charge amount. In this way, in the checkout system 10 of this embodiment, the charge amount is designated at the accounting machine 12. The charge amount is not designated at the registration machine 11.

[0053] The detection means 612 has a function of detecting the deposit of cash equivalent to the charging amount. The deposit of cash is made to an automatic change machine connected to the change machine interface 66.

[0054] The control means 613 has a function of controlling the addition of the charge amount to the balance of electronic money managed by the electronic money medium identified by the identification information in response to the deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount. Specifically, the control means 613 instructs the server 13 to update the balance of the electronic money record 150 stored in the electronic money file, which includes the electronic money ID that is the identification information output from the registration device 11, to the amount including the charge amount. The issuing means 614 has a function of using the printer 69 to issue a charge receipt indicating that the charge amount has been added to the electronic money balance.

[0055] The functions of the designation means 611, detection means 612, control means 613, and issuance means 614 are all realized by second information processing executed by the processor 61 in accordance with the 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 in the main memory 62 or the auxiliary storage device 63. The accounting program can be recorded on a removable recording medium, or can be distributed via communication via the network 14 and installed in 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.

[0056] [Explanation of the first and second information processing] Figures 5 and 6 are flowcharts 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 flowchart 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 11 are examples of various screens displayed on the touch panel 38, which is the display device of the registration machine 11. Figures 12 to 16 are examples of various screens displayed on the touch panel 68, which is the display device of the payment machine 12. Figure 17 is an example of a charge receipt issued by the function of the issuing means 614. The first information processing and the second information processing will be explained in detail below using each figure. Note that the processing steps explained below are just examples. The procedures or content of the processing can be changed as appropriate as long as similar effects can be achieved.

[0057] First, in the checkout system 10 of this embodiment, not only customers 22 who pay for purchased goods but also customers 22 who simply charge electronic money line up in the checkout lane. For ease of explanation, hereinafter, a customer who pays for purchased goods will be referred to as customer 221, and a customer 22 who simply charge electronic money will be referred to as customer 222.

[0058] When customer 221 or 222 comes to the checkout lane, store clerk 21, who acts as a checker, declares the start of registration to registration machine 11. In response to this declaration, processor 31 starts a first information processing process whose procedure is shown in the flowcharts of FIGS.

[0059] The processor 31 resets the registration in progress flag F to "0" as ACT1 in FIG. 5. The registration in progress flag F is one-bit data for identifying whether or not registration of the purchased item purchased by the customer 221 has started. In this embodiment, the registration in progress flag F is set to "0" before registration starts, and the registration in progress flag F is set to "1" after registration starts. The registration in progress flag F is stored in a register inside the processor 31, for example. The registration in progress flag F may be stored in a volatile area in the main memory 32.

[0060] After completing the process in ACT1, the processor 31 displays the registration screen SCa (see FIG. 8) on the touch panel 38 in ACT2.

[0061] 8 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the registration screen SCa. As shown in the figure, the registration screen SCa has a detail area ARa and a total area ARb. The registration screen SCa also has a subtotal key BTa and a charge key BTb.

[0062] The details area ARa is an area for displaying the product name, quantity, unit price, and amount of the purchased product in a 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, and any item, such as the amount, may be omitted.

[0063] The total area ARb is an area for displaying the total number of items (dots) and the total amount (yen) displayed in the details area ARa. Note that the items displayed in the total area are not limited to the total number of items and the total amount. Other items may be added, or any of the items, such as the total number of items, may be omitted.

[0064] The subtotal key BTa is an operator that the store clerk 21 inputs to instruct the output of the subtotal of the registered purchased items. The charge key BTb is an operator that the store clerk 21 inputs when receiving a request from the customer 22 to charge electronic money. Incidentally, the customer 22 who requests to charge electronic money is not limited to the customer 222 who simply charges electronic money. A customer 221 who is paying for purchased items can also request to charge electronic money during the payment process. The subtotal key BTa and the charge key BTb are both soft keys located on the registration screen SCa. Either or both of the subtotal key BTa and the charge key BTb may be hard keys located on the keyboard 36.

[0065] 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 221. 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 key corresponding to the purchased product from the group of product keys displayed on touch panel 38. When the product key is touched, the product code of the purchased product corresponding to that product key 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.

[0066] If it cannot be determined in ACT3 that the product has been registered, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT4. In ACT4, the processor 31 checks whether the charge key BTb has been entered. If the charge key BTb has not been entered, the processor 31 returns to ACT3. In this way, in ACT3 and ACT4, the processor 31 waits for product registration to be performed or for the charge key BTb to be entered.

[0067] When the charge key BTb is input in the standby state of ACT3 and ACT4, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT5. The processor 31 executes the charge acceptance process. The charge acceptance process will be described later. After the charge acceptance process has been completed, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT6. The processor 31 checks the registration in progress flag F in ACT6. If the registration in progress flag is "0", that is, if the charge key BTb was input and the charge acceptance process was executed before product registration started, the processor 31 terminates the first information processing.

[0068] On the other hand, if the registration in progress flag is "1", that is, if the charge key BTb is input after product registration has started and the charge acceptance process is executed, the processor 31 returns to ACT 3. That is, the processor 31 again enters a standby state for ACT 3 and ACT 4.

[0069] If it is determined in ACT3 that the product has been registered, i.e., if product registration is detected, processor 31 proceeds to ACT7. In ACT7, processor 31 checks the registration in progress flag F. If the registration in progress flag F is reset to "0", processor 31 proceeds to ACT8. In ACT8, processor 31 sets the registration in progress flag F to "1". On the other hand, if the registration in progress flag F has already been set to "1", processor 31 skips the processing of ACT7. Therefore, the registration in progress flag F remains at "1".

[0070] After completing or skipping the processing of ACT8, processor 31 proceeds to ACT9. Processor 31 executes product sales data processing in ACT9. Specifically, processor 31 searches the product file to acquire 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 ARa and total area ARb of registration screen SCa based on the data in the transaction memory.

[0071] After completing the product sales data processing, processor 31 checks in ACT10 whether a command to output a subtotal has been issued. Subtotal output is issued by pressing the subtotal key BTa. If subtotal output has not been issued, processor 31 returns to ACT3. Processor 31 again enters a standby state for ACT3 and ACT4. In this standby state, when a product is registered, processor 31 executes product sales data processing.

[0072] When the store clerk 21 has finished registering all of the purchased items of the customer 221, the store clerk 21 inputs the subtotal key BTa. When the input of the subtotal key BTa instructs the output of the subtotal, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 11. In ACT 11, the processor 31 causes the touch panel 38 to display the subtotal screen.

[0073] The subtotal screen is a screen that has a total area and also has soft keys such as 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 ARb of the registration screen SCa. 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 SCa. 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.

[0074] After checking the subtotal screen, the sales clerk 21 registers all of the purchased items of the customer 221, and if a subtotal discount or discount is not required, the sales clerk 21 enters a subtotal discount key or a subtotal discount key. If a subtotal discount or discount is required, the sales clerk 21 enters a subtotal discount key or a subtotal discount key. If there are any unregistered purchased items remaining, the sales clerk 21 enters a return key.

[0075] After controlling the display of the subtotal screen, processor 31 checks in ACT12 whether the back key has been pressed. If the back key has not been pressed, processor 31 proceeds to ACT13. In ACT13, processor 31 checks whether the payment key has been pressed. If the payment key has not been pressed, processor 31 returns to ACT12. In this way, processor 31 waits for the back key to be pressed or the payment key to be pressed in ACT12 and ACT13. Note that if the subtotal discount key or subtotal discount key is pressed in this standby state, although not shown, processor 31 performs the subtotal discount process or the subtotal discount process. Thereafter, processor 31 returns to the standby state in ACT12 and ACT13.

[0076] If the store clerk 21 presses the back key during the standby state of ACT12 and ACT13, the processor 31 returns to ACT2. That is, the processor 31 returns the screen of the touch panel 38 to the registration screen SCa. Then, the processor 31 executes the processes from ACT3 onward in the same manner as described above.

[0077] If the payment key is entered by the store clerk 21 during the standby state of ACT 12 and ACT 13, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 14. The processor 31 creates a transaction file in ACT 14. 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.

[0078] The processor 31 controls the communication unit 35 to transmit the transaction file to the payment device 12 as ACT15. This control causes the transaction file to be transmitted to the payment device 12 via the network 14. The transaction file may be transmitted to the payment device 12 via the server 13, or may be transmitted to the payment device 12 without going through the server 13.

[0079] 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.

[0080] After the transaction file has been sent, processor 31 proceeds to ACT 16. In ACT 16, processor 31 causes touch panel 38 to display a destination notification screen. The destination notification screen displays information indicating the accounting machine 12 to which the transaction file has been sent, such as the accounting machine number. With this, processor 31 ends the first information processing.

[0081] In this way, when the clerk 21 has finished registering the purchased items and inputs the payment key, a transaction file describing the product sales data and other information for the registered purchased items is sent to the payment machine 12. In addition, the touch panel 38 displays information indicating the payment machine 12 to which the transaction file will be sent. The clerk 21 then instructs the customer 221 to pay for the purchase at that payment machine 12. The customer 221 then goes to the location of the payment machine 12 instructed by the clerk 21 and operates that payment machine 12 to pay for the purchased items.

[0082] Next, the charge acceptance process will be described in detail. 6 is a flowchart showing the steps of the charge acceptance process executed by processor 31. Upon receiving a request for electronic money charge from customer 221 or 222 and inputting charge key BTb, a store clerk causes reader 41 to read the information on the electronic money medium presented by customer 221 or 222. Processor 31 enters the charge acceptance process upon input of charge key BTb, and acquires the user ID from the information on the electronic money medium read by reader 41 in ACT21.

[0083] Once the user ID is acquired, the processor 31 controls the communication unit 35 to send a balance inquiry command to the server 13 in ACT22. This control causes the balance inquiry command to be sent via the communication unit 35. The balance inquiry command is sent to the server 13 via the network 14. The balance inquiry command includes the user ID acquired in ACT21.

[0084] Upon receiving the balance inquiry command, the server 13 searches the electronic money file 15 to obtain the electronic money record 150 that records the user ID included in the balance inquiry command. The server 13 then transmits a balance response command including the obtained electronic money record 150 to the registration device 11 that sent the balance inquiry command via the network 14.

[0085] The processor 31, which controlled the transmission of the balance inquiry command, waits for a balance response command in ACT23. When the balance response command is received via the communication unit 35, the processor 31 checks whether or not recharge is possible based on the data of the electronic money record 150 included in the balance response command in ACT24. For example, if the expiration date recorded in the electronic money record 150 is a date that precedes the current date measured by the clock 34, the processor 31 determines that recharge is not possible. If the expiration date is a date that follows the current date, the processor 31 determines that recharge is possible.

[0086] If recharging is not possible in ACT 24, processor 31 proceeds to ACT 25. Processor 31 notifies the user that recharging is not possible in ACT 25. For example, processor 31 notifies the user by displaying a message on touch panel 38 and customer display 39 saying, "Recharging is not possible because the electronic money has expired." This notification lets customer 221 or 222 who has requested to recharge electronic money know that recharging is not possible because the electronic money has expired.

[0087] If recharging is possible in ACT 24, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 26. In ACT 26, the processor 31 causes the touch panel 38 to display the balance inquiry screen SCb (see FIG. 9).

[0088] FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the balance inquiry screen SCb. As shown in the figure, the balance inquiry screen SCb displays the balance and expiration date of the electronic money recorded in the electronic money record 150. The balance inquiry screen SCb also has a close key BTc. In this way, the store clerk 21 who inputs the charge key BTb can check the balance and expiration date of the electronic money of the customer 221 or 222 who wishes to charge from the information displayed on the balance inquiry screen SCb. After checking the balance and expiration date, the store clerk 21 inputs the close key BTc. At this time, the balance and expiration date of the electronic money may also be displayed on the customer display 39. By doing so, the customer 221 or 222 can visually check the balance and expiration date of the electronic money. However, the information displayed on the customer display 39 may be visible to other customers. Therefore, from the perspective of protecting personal information, the balance and expiration date of the electronic money may not be displayed on the customer display 39.

[0089] After controlling the display of the balance inquiry screen SCb, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 27. In ACT 27, the processor 31 waits for the close key BTc to be entered. If the close key BTc is entered, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 28. In ACT 28, the processor 31 displays the accounting machine transmission screen SCc (see FIG. 10) on the touch panel 38.

[0090] 10 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the payment machine sending screen SCc. As shown in the figure, the payment machine sending screen SCc has a send key BTd and a cancel key BTe. The payment machine sending screen SCc also has a total display area ARc. The processor 31 then displays 0 yen in the total display area ARc.

[0091] After checking the payment machine sending screen SCc, the clerk confirms with customer 221 or 222 whether they really want to charge. If they want to charge, the clerk presses the send key BTd. If they want to cancel the charge, the clerk presses the cancel key BTe. Note that on the payment machine sending screen SCc, the shape of the send key BTd is made larger than the cancel key BTe, making it easier for clerk 21 to operate.

[0092] After controlling the display of the accounting machine transmission screen SCc, processor 31 proceeds to ACT29. In ACT29, processor 31 waits for the transmission key BTd to be entered or the cancel key BTe to be entered. If the cancel key BTe is entered, processor 31 proceeds to ACT30. In ACT30, processor 31 notifies the customer that the charge has been canceled. For example, processor 31 notifies the customer by displaying a message such as "The charge to electronic money has been canceled" on either or both of touch panel 38 and customer display 39.

[0093] If the transmission key BTd is entered in ACT29, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT31. In ACT31, the processor 31 controls the communication unit 35 to send a charge command to the payment machine 12. This control causes the charge command to be sent to the payment machine 12 via the network 14. The charge command includes identification information linked to the information on the electronic money medium read by the reader 41, that is, the user ID obtained in the processing of ACT21. The charge command may be sent to the payment machine 12 via the server 13, or may be sent to the payment machine 12 without going through the server 13. In this case, the charge command is also sent to the payment machine 12 according to the rules described above.

[0094] After transmitting the charge command, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 32. In ACT 32, the processor 31 causes the touch panel 38 to display a destination notification screen SCd (see FIG. 11).

[0095] 11 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the destination notification screen SCd. As shown in the figure, the destination notification screen SCd displays information indicating the payment machine 12 to which the charge command was sent, such as the payment machine number.

[0096] When processor 31 completes the processing of ACT25, ACT30, or ACT33, it exits the charge acceptance process. After exiting the charge acceptance process, processor 31 proceeds to ACT6 in FIG. 6, as described above. That is, if the registration in progress flag F is set to "0", the first information process ends. Therefore, the first information process for customer 222 who only wants to charge electronic money ends after the charge acceptance process.

[0097] On the other hand, if the registration in progress flag F is set to "1", the system will wait for ACT3 and ACT4. Therefore, for a customer 221 who requests electronic money charging while registering purchased items, the system can continue to register the remaining purchased items after the charging acceptance process. In this case, if the subtotal key BTa is entered without registering any purchased items, the system will proceed to ACT11. By doing so, if there are no remaining purchased items, the system can transition to outputting the subtotal screen.

[0098] Here, the processor 31 realizes the function of declaration receiving means 311 by executing the processing of ACT4 in Fig. 5. The processor 31 realizes the function of reading means 312 by executing the processing of ACT21 in Fig. 6 in cooperation with the reader 41. The processor 31 realizes the function of output means 313 by executing the processing of ACT31 in Fig. 6 in cooperation with the communication unit 35. The processor 31 realizes the function of inquiry means 314 by executing the processing of ACT22 in Fig. 6 in cooperation with the communication unit 35. The processor 31 realizes the function of standby means 315 by executing the processing of ACT26 to ACT29 in Fig. 6 in cooperation with the touch panel 38. The processor 31 realizes the function of notification means 316 by executing the processing of ACT32 in Fig. 6 in cooperation with the touch panel 38.

[0099] In this way, when the store clerk 21 presses the send key BTd on the payment machine sending screen SCc, a charge command is sent to the payment machine 12, and the destination notification screen SCd is displayed on the touch panel 38. The store clerk 21 then instructs the customer 221 or 222 to charge electronic money at the payment machine 12 indicated on the destination notification screen SCd. The customer 221 or 222 then goes to the location of the payment machine 12 instructed by the store clerk 21, operates that payment machine 12, specifies the amount to charge electronic money, and charges the electronic money.

[0100] When the processor 61 of the accounting machine 12 has completed the payment process for the previous customer, or has completed the electronic money charging process, and is ready to process a new payment, it starts the second information processing whose steps are shown in the flowchart of Figure 7.

[0101] The processor 61 checks whether a transaction file has been received in ACT41. If a transaction file has not been received, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT42. The processor 61 checks whether a charge command has been received in ACT42. If a charge command has not been received, the processor 61 returns to ACT41. In this way, the processor 61 waits to receive a transaction file or a charge command in ACT41 and ACT42. Note that if data other than a transaction file or a charge command is received in this standby state, the processor 61 executes information processing according to that data.

[0102] When a transaction file is received via the communication unit 65 in the standby state of ACT41 and ACT42, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT43. In ACT43, the processor 61 displays the first payment method selection screen SCe (see FIG. 12) on the touch panel 68. That is, the first payment method selection screen SCe is the top screen displayed on the payment device 12 to which the customer 221, who is paying for the purchased goods, has moved.

[0103] FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the first payment method selection screen SCe. In this embodiment, the first payment method selection screen SCe is a screen on which a cash button BTg, a credit button BTh, an electronic money button BTi, a charge button BTj, and a store clerk call button BTk are arranged. The first payment method selection screen SCe also includes a display area ARd for the total points and total amount. The cash button BTg is an operator input by the customer 221 to instruct the customer 221 to pay for the purchased items with cash. The credit button BTh is an operator input by the customer 221 to instruct the customer 221 to pay for the purchased items with a credit card. The electronic money button BTi is an operator input by the customer 221 to instruct the customer 221 to pay for the purchased items with electronic money. The charge button BTj is an operator input by the customer 221 to instruct the customer 221 to charge electronic money. The store clerk call button BTk is an operator input by the customer 221 to call a store clerk. However, the charge button BTj is disabled by being erased or grayed out, and is inoperable.

[0104] The cash button BTg, credit button BTh, and electronic money button BTi function as selection means for selecting each payment method. Note that the payment methods are not limited to cash payment, credit card payment, and electronic money payment. Any two of these methods may be selected, or a different payment method may be selectable.

[0105] After checking the first payment method selection screen SCe, the customer 221 presses the button corresponding to the desired payment method. That is, a customer 221 who wishes to pay in cash presses the cash button BTg. A customer 221 who wishes to pay by credit card presses the credit button BTh. A customer 221 who wishes to pay by electronic money presses the electronic money button BTi.

[0106] With the screen of touch panel 68 set to first payment method selection screen SCe, processor 61 waits for a payment method to be selected from among multiple payment methods in ACT 44. When the cash button BTg, credit button BTh, or electronic money button BTi is pressed to select a payment method, processor 61 proceeds to ACT 45. Processor 61 executes settlement processing using the selected payment method in ACT 45.

[0107] For example, when the cash button BTg 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 BTh 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 amount to be paid by credit card. For example, when the electronic money button BTi 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.

[0108] When the payment process is completed in ACT45, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT46. In ACT46, 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 ACT43. That is, the processor 61 displays the first payment method selection screen SCe 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 ARd becomes the remaining balance.

[0109] If there is no remaining balance in the total amount in ACT46, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT47. In ACT47, 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 ACT48. In ACT48, 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 completes the second information processing for the customer 221 who is paying for the purchased items.

[0110] In this way, when the customer 221 who is paying for the purchased goods moves to the payment machine 12, the first payment method selection screen SCe is displayed as the top screen on the touch panel 68. Therefore, the customer 221 can smoothly select the desired payment method. Then, the customer 221 can settle the purchase transaction by himself by paying for the purchased goods according to the selected payment method.

[0111] If a charge command is received via the communication unit 65 while in the standby state of ACT41 and ACT42, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT49. In ACT49, the processor 61 displays the second payment method selection screen SCf (see FIG. 13) on the touch panel 68. In other words, the second payment method selection screen SCf is the top screen displayed on the payment device 12 to which the customer 221 or 222 who is charging electronic money has moved.

[0112] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the second payment method selection screen SCf. In this embodiment, the second payment method selection screen SCf, like the first payment method selection screen SCe, has a cash button BTg, a credit button BTh, an electronic money button BTi, a charge button BTj, and a store clerk call button BTk. The second payment method selection screen SCf also includes a display area ARd for the total points and total amount. However, the cash button BTg, the credit button BTh, and the electronic money button BTi for selecting the payment method are disabled by being erased or grayed out, and cannot be selected by customer 221 or customer 222. The total points displayed in the display area ARd are 0 points, and the total amount is 0 yen.

[0113] After controlling the display of the second payment method selection screen SCf, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 50. The processor 61 waits for the charge button BTj to be pressed in ACT 50. When it is confirmed by a signal from the touch panel 68 that the charge button BTj has been pressed, the processor 61 displays the charge amount designation screen SCg (see FIG. 14) on the touch panel 68 in ACT 51.

[0114] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the charge amount designation screen SCg. As shown in the figure, the charge amount designation screen SCg has a charge amount designation button BTm, a confirmation button BTn, and a store clerk call button BTk. The charge amount designation button BTm is an operator that allows the customer 221 or 222 to designate a charge amount of "1,000 yen," "2,000 yen," "3,000 yen," "4,000 yen," "5,000 yen," or "10,000 yen." Note that the charge amount is not limited to the above amounts. Alternatively, an arbitrary charge amount may be designated by operating a numeric keypad, for example.

[0115] The Confirm button BTn is an operator that allows the customer 221 or 222 to confirm the charge amount specified with the charge amount specification button BTm. After checking the charge amount specification screen SCg, the customer 221 or 222 selects the button for the desired charge amount from the charge amount specification buttons BTm, and then presses the Confirm button BTn.

[0116] After controlling the display of the charge amount designation screen SCg, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT52. In ACT52, the processor 61 waits for the charge amount to be designated. As described above, when the Confirm button BTn is pressed after the charge amount designation button BTm, the processor 61 detects the amount assigned to the charge amount designation button BTm as the amount designated as the charge amount. The processor 61 proceeds to ACT53. In ACT53, the processor 61 displays the charge amount acceptance screen SCh (see FIG. 15) on the touch panel 68.

[0117] FIG. 15 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the display of the charge amount acceptance screen SCh. As shown in the figure, the charge amount acceptance screen SCh is a screen for instructing the automatic change machine to insert cash equivalent to the charge amount, and includes a display area ARe for the total amount, the amount inserted, and the remaining amount, a cancel button BTo, and a store clerk call button BTk. The display area ARe displays the charge amount specified by the customer 221 or 222 as the total amount. The inserted amount is the amount of cash inserted into the automatic change machine, and the remaining amount is the charge amount minus the inserted amount. The cancel button BTo is an operator for the customer 221 or 222 to instruct the customer 221 or 222 to cancel the electronic money charge.

[0118] After checking the charge amount reception screen SCh, the customer 221 or 222 inserts cash equivalent to the charge amount into the automatic change machine. If the customer 221 or 222 wishes to cancel the electronic money charge, they press the cancel button BTo.

[0119] After controlling the display of the charge amount acceptance screen SCh, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT54. In ACT54, the processor 61 waits for cash equivalent to the charge amount to be inserted into the automatic change machine. When the processor 61 detects from the data signal input to the change machine interface 66 that cash equivalent to the charge amount has been inserted into the automatic change machine, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT55. In ACT55, the processor 61 displays the insertion completion screen SCi (see FIG. 16) on the touch panel 68.

[0120] 16 is a schematic diagram showing an example of the deposit completion screen SCi. As shown in the figure, the deposit completion screen SCi has a display area ARe equivalent to the charge amount acceptance screen SCh, a settlement button BTp, and a cancel button BTq. At this point, cash equivalent to the charge amount has been inserted into the automatic change machine, so the amount inserted in the display area ARe is equal to the charge amount displayed as the total amount, and the remaining balance is 0 yen. The settlement button BTp is an operator that allows the customer 221 or 222 to instruct the customer 221 or 222 to execute the charge of the specified charge amount, and the cancel button BTq is an operator that allows the customer 221 or 222 to instruct the customer 221 or 222 to cancel the charge.

[0121] After controlling the display of the insertion completion screen SCi, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT56. In ACT56, the processor 61 executes the charge process. That is, the processor 61 sends charge data including the user ID included in the charge command and the charge amount specified on the charge amount specification screen SCg to the server 13. Having received the charge data, the server 13 executes a process of adding the charge amount included in the charge data to the balance of the electronic money record including the user ID included in the charge data. After completing this process, charge completion data including the balance after charge is sent from the server 13 to the accounting device 12. Upon receiving the charge completion data, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT58. In ACT58, the processor 61 outputs print data for a charge receipt RE (see FIG. 17) to the printer 69. The printer 69 prints and issues the charge receipt RE.

[0122] Figure 17 is a schematic diagram showing an example of a charge receipt RE. As shown in the figure, the charge receipt RE is printed with the date the charge was performed, the balance before the charge, the charge amount, and the balance after the charge. The charge receipt RE also prints the registration machine number, which is the identification information of the registration machine 11 that issued the charge command, and the accounting machine number, which is the identification information of the accounting machine 12 that issued the charge receipt RE. Therefore, the charge receipt RE not only provides the amount related to the electronic money charge, but also information that can identify the registration machine 11 that made the charge request and the accounting machine 12 that performed the charge by specifying the charge amount.

[0123] After controlling the issuance of the charge receipt RE, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT 59. In ACT 59, the processor 61 displays a charge completion screen on the touch panel 68. The charge completion screen is not particularly limited, but is preferably a screen that displays guidance required when charging is completed, such as "Please be careful not to forget to take the receipt." With this, the processor 61 ends the second information processing.

[0124] If the cancel button BTo on the charge amount reception screen SCh is pressed in ACT54, or if the cancel button BTq on the insertion completion screen SCi is pressed in ACT56, the processor 61 proceeds to ACT59, displays a charge completion screen on the touch panel 68, and ends the second information processing. The guidance on the charge completion screen at this time is expected to be, for example, "Charge has been canceled."

[0125] [Effects of the checkout system] As described above, the semi-self-service checkout system 10 of this embodiment allows electronic money to be loaded onto the electronic money medium at the payment machine 12 only when the registration machine 11 has read the information on the electronic money medium. Therefore, a customer who has not read the information on the electronic money medium at the registration machine 11 will not occupy the payment machine 12 and load electronic money, preventing the inconvenience of a customer 221 who has completed registering their purchases at the registration machine 11 being unable to proceed to checkout. Furthermore, because the electronic money loading amount is specified by the customer 221 or 222 operating the payment machine 12, this does not burden store staff and does not affect customer handling at the registration machine 11. Thus, a mechanism for efficiently loading electronic money into the semi-self-service checkout system 10 can be provided. As a result, dedicated loading machines are no longer necessary or can be reduced, thereby saving on equipment costs.

[0126] In this embodiment, the layout of the first payment method selection screen SCe, which is displayed as the top screen on the payment machine 12 to which the customer 221 who is paying for the purchased goods has moved, and the layout of the second payment method selection screen SCf, which is displayed as the top screen on the payment machine 12 to which the customer 221 or customer 222 who is charging electronic money has moved, are the same. Therefore, whether the customer 22 operates the payment machine 12 to pay for the purchased goods or to charge electronic money, the layout of the key buttons displayed on the top screen of the payment machine 12 is the same, so the customer will not be confused.

[0127] [Variations] In the above embodiment, the electronic money file 15 is stored in the server 13 connected to the network 14. The electronic money file 15 may be stored in a cloud server accessible via the Internet, and the registration device 11 or the accounting device 12 may access the cloud server to use the electronic money file 15.

[0128] In the above embodiment, the designation unit 611 is described as having a function of inputting identification information output from the registration machine 11 and designating a recharge amount. Alternatively, the designation unit 611 may input identification information output from the registration machine 11 and, if the identification information matches the identification information entered at the payment machine 12, designate a recharge amount. That is, a customer who moves from the registration machine 11 to the payment machine 12 to recharge electronic money has the reader / writer 70 read the information on the electronic money medium. In this case, the identification information output from the registration machine 11 matches the identification information linked to the information on the electronic money medium entered at the payment machine 12, so the processor 61 of the payment machine 12 displays the recharge amount designation screen SCg on the touch panel 68. On the other hand, if a third party, other than the customer whose information on the electronic money medium was read at the registration machine 11, has the reader / writer 70 of the payment machine 12 read the information on the electronic money medium, the identification information does not match, and the recharge amount designation screen SCg is not displayed. As a result, the third party cannot recharge electronic money. In other words, only customers who move from the registration machine 11 to the payment machine 12 can use the payment machine 12 to charge electronic money.

[0129] In the above embodiment, an example was given of a case in which the registration device 11 is instructed to continue or cancel the electronic money charge when the payment machine transmission screen SCc, which is displayed after the balance inquiry screen SCb, is displayed. In another embodiment, an affirmative key and a negative key are provided on the balance inquiry screen SCb. If the affirmative key is pressed, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 28. If the negative key is pressed, the processor 31 proceeds to ACT 30. With this configuration, it is possible to instruct the registration device 11 to continue or cancel the electronic money charge when the balance on the balance inquiry screen SCb is confirmed. Of course, in this case, it is also possible to again instruct the registration device 11 to continue or cancel the electronic money charge when the payment machine transmission screen SCc is displayed.

[0130] 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. [Appendix 1] In a checkout system in which the registration machine and the cashier machine are separated, The registration machine is A declaration receiving means for receiving a declaration of charging electronic money; reading means for reading identification information of the electronic money medium in response to receiving the charge declaration; an output means for outputting the identification information of the electronic money medium to the accounting machine; Equipped with The accounting machine is a designation means for inputting the identification information output from the registration machine and designating a charge amount; a detection means for detecting a deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount; a control means for controlling the electronic money medium identified by the identification information so that the charge amount is added to the balance of the electronic money managed by the electronic money medium in response to the deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount; A checkout system comprising: [Appendix 2] The registration machine is: an inquiry means for inquiring about the balance of the electronic money medium identified by the identification information read by said reading means; a standby means for waiting for a selection input as to whether or not to charge the card after displaying the balance; Further comprising: 2. The checkout system according to claim 1, wherein the output means outputs the identification information of the electronic money medium to the cash register in response to receiving a selection input indicating that the charge is to be performed. [Appendix 3] The accounting machine is: issuing means for issuing a receipt indicating that the charge amount has been added to the balance of the electronic money; 2. The checkout system of claim 1, further comprising: [Appendix 4] Multiple registered devices are linked to one registered device, the registering machine includes a notifying means for notifying the accounting machine that has output the identification information of the electronic money medium by the output means; 4. The checkout system according to claim 1, further comprising: [Appendix 5] A registration machine that constitutes a separate accounting machine and checkout system, A declaration receiving means for receiving a declaration of charging electronic money; reading means for reading identification information of the electronic money medium in response to receiving the charge declaration; an output means for outputting identification information of the electronic money medium to the accounting machine, which controls the electronic money medium to be identified by the identification information so that the charge amount is added to the balance of electronic money managed by the electronic money medium identified by the identification information when cash equivalent to the charge amount is deposited by designating the charge amount; A registration machine equipped with the above. [Appendix 6] A cashier machine that comprises a separate registration machine and checkout system, a designation means for inputting the identification information of the electronic money read by the registration machine from the registration machine and designating the charge amount; a detection means for detecting a deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount; a control means for controlling the electronic money medium identified by the identification information to add the charge amount to a balance of electronic money managed by the electronic money medium in response to the deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount; An accounting machine equipped with the above. [Appendix 7] The computers of the separate cashiers and registers that make up the checkout system are A declaration acceptance means for accepting a declaration of charging electronic money; reading means for reading identification information of the electronic money medium in response to receiving the charge declaration; and an output means for outputting the identification information of the electronic money medium to the accounting machine, which controls the cashier so that, when a charge amount is designated and cash equivalent to the charge amount is deposited, the charge amount is added to the balance of electronic money managed by the electronic money medium identified by the identification information; A program to function as a [Appendix 8] The computer of the separate register machine and the accounting machine that make up the checkout system, a designation means for inputting the identification information of the electronic money read by the registration machine from the registration machine and designating the charge amount; A detection means for detecting the deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount; and a control means for controlling the electronic money medium identified by the identification information to add the charge amount to the balance of the electronic money managed by the electronic money medium in response to the deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount; A program to function as a [Explanation of symbols]

[0131] 10...checkout system, 11...registration machine, 12...accounting machine, 13...server, 14...network, 15...electronic money 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...relay reader / writer, 311...declaration acceptance means, 312...reading means, 313...output means, 314...inquiry means, 315...standby means, 316...notification means, 611...designation means, 612...detection means, 613...control means, 614...issuing means, SCa...registration screen, SCb...balance inquiry screen, SCc...accounting machine transmission screen, SCd...destination notification screen, SCe...first payment method selection screen, SCf...second payment method selection screen, SCg...charge amount designation screen, SCh...charge amount acceptance screen, SCi...insertion completion screen, RE...charge receipt.

Claims

1. In a checkout system where the registration machine and the accounting machine are separated, The registration machine is A declaration receiving means for receiving a declaration of charging electronic money; reading means for reading identification information of the electronic money medium in response to receiving the charge declaration; an inquiry means for inquiring about the balance of the electronic money medium identified by the identification information read by said reading means; a standby means for displaying the balance inquired by the inquiring means and then waiting for a selection input as to whether or not to charge; an output means for outputting identification information of the electronic money medium to the accounting machine in response to receiving a selection input indicating that the charging is to be performed; Equipped with The accounting machine is a designation means for inputting the identification information output from the registration machine and designating the charge amount; a detection means for detecting a deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount; a control means for controlling the electronic money medium identified by the identification information so that the charge amount is added to the balance of the electronic money managed by the electronic money medium in response to the deposit of cash equivalent to the charge amount; A checkout system comprising:

2. The accounting machine is issuing means for issuing a receipt indicating that the charge amount has been added to the balance of the electronic money; The checkout system of claim 1 further comprising:

3. Multiple accounting machines are linked to one registration machine, the registering machine includes a notification means for displaying on a display device information indicating the accounting machine that has output the identification information of the electronic money medium by the output means; 3. The checkout system according to claim 1, further comprising:

4. A registration machine that constitutes a separate accounting machine and checkout system, A declaration receiving means for receiving a declaration of charging electronic money; reading means for reading identification information of the electronic money medium in response to receiving the charge declaration; an inquiry means for inquiring about the balance of the electronic money medium identified by the identification information read by said reading means; a standby means for displaying the balance inquired by the inquiring means and then waiting for a selection input as to whether or not to charge; an output means for outputting identification information of the electronic money medium in response to a selection input for performing the charging to the accounting machine, which controls the accounting machine so that a charging amount is designated and, in response to depositing cash equivalent to the charging amount, the charging amount is added to the balance of electronic money managed by the electronic money medium identified by the identification information; and A registration machine equipped with the above.

5. The computers of the separate cashier and register that make up the checkout system are A declaration acceptance means for accepting a declaration of charging electronic money; reading means for reading identification information of the electronic money medium in response to receiving the charge declaration; an inquiry means for inquiring about the balance of the electronic money medium identified by the identification information read by said reading means; a waiting means for waiting for a selection input of whether or not to charge after displaying the balance inquired by the inquiring means; and an output means for outputting the identification information of the electronic money medium in response to receiving a selection input indicating that the charging will be performed to the accounting machine, which controls the accounting machine so that the charging amount is specified and, in response to depositing cash equivalent to the charging amount, the charging amount is added to the balance of electronic money managed by the electronic money medium identified by the identification information; A program to function as a

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