Actuarial device

Abstract

To provide an adjustment device with a compact footprint and high operability in payment operation performed by a customer.SOLUTION: A registration adjustment device comprises: one housing; a POS terminal (commodity registration information generating unit) that is installed to be fitted in a width direction of the housing viewed from a first direction, and which a clerk operates from the first direction to generate commodity registration information for commodities; and an accounting terminal (settlement processing unit) that is installed to be fitted in the width direction of the housing viewed from a second direction different from the first direction, and which a customer operates from the second direction to make a settlement related to the commodity registration information obtained from the POS terminal. In the accounting terminal, a customer-side display unit (operation reception unit) used for selecting a settlement method, a reading unit for reading code information related to settlement from a mobile terminal exposed to reading light emitted from above to a top surface of the housing, and a settlement terminal installed side by side with the customer-side display unit on the customer side away from the reading unit, for reading information registered in a credit card when credit settlement is made, are secured on a column extending upward from the top surface of the housing.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a settlement device. [Background technology]

[0002] BACKGROUND ART Conventionally, payment devices that enable quick payment of purchased products in stores have been proposed (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a payment device equipped with a coin slot and a coin dispensing outlet through which customers can receive payment for merchandise. It is desirable for such payment devices to be both more compact to improve ease of installation in stores and easier for customers to use when making payments. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a payment device that requires a small installation area and allows customers to easily perform payment operations. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The settlement device of the embodiment includes a product registration information generation unit and a payment processing unit in a single housing. The product registration information generation unit is installed to fit within the width direction of the housing when viewed from a first direction, and is operated by a store clerk from the first direction to generate product registration information that registers product information for products purchased by a customer. The payment processing unit is installed to fit within the width direction of the housing when viewed from a second direction different from the first direction, and is operated by a customer from the second direction to make a payment related to the product registration information obtained from the product registration information generation unit. The payment processing unit includes an operation reception unit that displays selection information for selecting a payment method and receives a selection operation for the selection information, a reading unit that, when performing code payment, irradiates a reading light from above on the top surface of the housing and reads code information related to payment from a mobile terminal held up to the reading light, and a payment terminal that is installed side by side with the operation reception unit and closer to the customer than the reading unit, and reads information registered on a card when performing credit card payment. These are fixed to a support extending upward from the top surface of the housing. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the appearance of a registration and settlement device according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a top view of the registration and settlement device according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is an external view showing the main configuration of the registration and settlement device of the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is an external view of a settlement fixture provided in the registration and settlement device of the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a first side view showing the main configuration of the payment fixture. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a front view showing the main configuration of the payment fixture. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a second side view showing the main configuration of the payment fixture. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a third side view showing the main configuration of the payment fixture. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a first exploded perspective view of the payment fixture. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a second exploded perspective view of the payment fixture. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a third exploded perspective view of the payment fixture. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a fourth exploded perspective view of the payment fixture. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is an external view of the rear side of the assembled payment fixture. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is an external perspective view of the registration and settlement device with the change dispenser cover open. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a side view showing the registration and settlement device with the change dispenser cover open. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is an external perspective view showing the receipt printer provided in the registration and settlement device in an open state. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a payment status monitor screen displayed on the clerk's display. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the customer-facing display. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a payment processing screen displayed on the customer-facing display. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is an external perspective view showing an example of a first modified example of the registration and settlement device. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a top view showing an example of a first modified example of the registration and settlement device. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is an external perspective view showing an example of a second modified example of the registration and settlement device. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a top view showing an example of the second modified example of the registration and settlement device. [Figure 24] FIG. 24 is an external view showing an example of operation of a registration and settlement device in a store. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is an external perspective view showing an example of a third modified example of the registration and settlement device. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is an external perspective view of the front side of a settlement fixture provided in a registration settlement device of the third modified example. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is an external perspective view of the rear side of the settlement fixture provided in the registration and settlement device of the third modified example. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a first diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the customer-side display of FIG. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a second diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the customer-side display of FIG. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a hardware block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of a product sales data processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the product sales data processing system according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described below.

[0008] (General configuration of the settlement device) The schematic configuration of a registration and settlement device 30 according to an embodiment will be described using Figures 1, 2, and 3. Figure 1 is an external perspective view of the registration and settlement device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 is a top view of the settlement device according to an embodiment. Figure 3 is an external view showing the main configuration of the registration and settlement device according to an embodiment.

[0009] The registration and settlement device 30 is installed in a store and performs a product registration process to register product information, including product names and price information, based on product identification information (hereinafter referred to as product codes) that identifies the products purchased by customers and is input via input devices 20 and 21 (see FIG. 24), which will be described later, and a payment process for the registered products. The registration and settlement device 30 includes a POS terminal 40 and an accounting terminal 50. The POS terminal 40 is operated by a store clerk, and the accounting terminal 50 is operated by a customer. The registration and settlement device 30 is an example of a registration device and a settlement device in this disclosure. The registration and settlement device 30 may be configured as separate devices, with the registration device having the product registration function and the settlement device having the settlement function. The registration and settlement device 30 may also be simply referred to as a settlement device, as it is a terminal operated by a customer.

[0010] The POS terminal 40 acquires the product code input via the input devices 20 and 21 described below and registers the product information of the product purchased by the customer. The POS terminal 40 also outputs the registered product registration information to the accounting terminal 50. The POS terminal 40 is an example of a product registration information generation unit in the present disclosure.

[0011] The accounting terminal 50 acquires product registration information from the POS terminal 40. The accounting terminal 50 also performs payments related to the product registration information. The accounting terminal 50 is an example of a payment processing unit in the present disclosure.

[0012] The POS terminal 40 includes a main body 41, a store clerk display 42, and a keyboard 43. The POS terminal 40 may also include a handy scanner (not shown), which the store clerk operates to read a product code and register the product on the POS terminal 40. The POS terminal 40 may also register a product by directly specifying the product via a preset key displayed on the store clerk display 42 and associated with a product code in advance.

[0013] The main body 41 is installed on the rear surface 34 side of the top surface 37 of the housing 32, and executes various processes performed by the POS terminal 40. The main body 41 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit), RAM (Random Access Memory), ROM (Read Only Memory), a storage unit, and a peripheral device controller.

[0014] The CPU is a computing device that executes various processes performed by the POS terminal 40.

[0015] The RAM and ROM manage the control programs executed by the CPU.

[0016] The storage unit stores the control program and data required for the operation of the CPU.

[0017] The peripheral device controller connects the main body 41 with the store clerk display 42 and keyboard 43, and controls the operation of these peripheral devices. The peripheral device controller also connects the main body 41 with the payment terminal 53 so that they can communicate with each other.

[0018] The clerk-side display 42 is installed on the top of the main body 41 facing the clerk, and displays various information related to the operation of the POS terminal 40. A touch panel is laminated on the display surface of the clerk-side display 42, and the clerk can give operating instructions to the POS terminal 40 by pressing various buttons displayed on the clerk-side display 42.

[0019] The keyboard 43 is installed on the top of the main body 41 facing the store clerk, and together with the touch panel described above, receives operational instructions from the store clerk and issues operational instructions to the main body 41.

[0020] The checkout terminal 50 includes a customer-facing display 51, a payment terminal 53, a scanner 60, and a change dispenser 80.

[0021] The customer-facing display 51 displays to the customer the details of the payment to be made by the checkout terminal 50 (such as product details and total amount) and selection information for selecting a payment method. The customer-facing display 51 is, for example, a 7-inch LCD monitor or an organic EL monitor. A touch panel is laminated on the display surface of the customer-facing display 51, and the customer can press various buttons displayed on the customer-facing display 51 to perform selection operations for selection information for selecting a payment method, for example. The customer-facing display 51 is an example of an operation reception unit in the present disclosure.

[0022] The payment terminal 53 performs payment in accordance with the customer's operation. Specifically, the payment terminal 53 performs payment processing using one of the following methods according to the customer's instructions: cash payment, points payment, electronic money payment, credit card payment, code payment, or prepaid payment. However, the payment methods are not limited to these. The payment terminal 53 is also an example of a payment means, and when a customer instructs cash payment, for example, the cash payment is made using the change dispenser 80 described below.

[0023] Cash payment is a payment method in which customers pay using bills and coins they have. When making a cash payment, customers instruct customer-side display 51 to make a cash payment, and then make a payment using change dispenser 80. The change dispenser 80 will be described in more detail later (see Figure 3).

[0024] Point payment is a payment method in which points awarded according to the purchase amount at a store are used to pay for goods. When making point payment, a customer, for example, uses scanner 60 to read the membership number registered on the store's membership card. The read membership number is sent to a server device (not shown) connected to payment terminal 53. The server device obtains the number of points for the customer from the information stored in the customer master and outputs this to payment terminal 53. Payment terminal 53 then applies the obtained points to the payment of the goods. At this time, if the point balance is insufficient to cover the payment amount, the customer can pay the remaining amount using another payment method.

[0025] Electronic money payment is a payment method in which payment is made using electronic money loaded onto, for example, an IC card. After instructing payment terminal 53 to make an electronic money payment, the customer makes the payment using the electronic money loaded onto the IC card, for example, by bringing the IC card close to payment terminal 53 and establishing short-range wireless communication with payment terminal 53. Note that instead of using an IC card, payment may also be made using electronic money loaded onto an electronic money app installed on a mobile terminal carried by the customer. In this case, the customer launches the electronic money app and displays code information, such as a two-dimensional code, on the mobile terminal. The customer then makes the payment using electronic money by having scanner 60 read the displayed code information.

[0026] Credit card payment is a payment method that uses a customer's credit card. When making a credit card payment, payment terminal 53 reads information registered on the customer's credit card, such as credit card company information, identification information that identifies the customer, and bank account information to which the payment will be debited, and then communicates with, for example, a server device of the credit card company (not shown in FIG. 1). The payment is then completed when the server device approves the payment. After instructing payment terminal 53 to make a credit card payment, the customer has payment terminal 53 read the registered information of the customer's credit card, thereby making the credit card payment.

[0027] Code payment is a payment method in which a payment app pre-installed on a mobile device carried by a customer displays code information that identifies the customer, and the displayed payment code is read by a scanner 60. The customer makes a purchase (selects a product) at a store, and then launches the code payment app installed on the mobile device to make the payment after a store clerk inputs the product code of the product using an input device 20 (see FIG. 24), which will be described later. When the code payment app launches, code information that uniquely identifies the customer is displayed on the mobile device. The customer holds the mobile device over the scanner 60 to have the code information read. The accounting terminal 50 makes a payment to the customer identified by the read code information, based on the product registration information generated by the POS terminal 40, using the product code entered using the input device 20. The paid amount is later debited from the bank account registered by the customer in the code payment app.

[0028] Prepaid payment is a payment method in which payment is made from the amount charged to a rechargeable prepaid card or from the amount precharged to a non-rechargeable prepaid card. Prepaid cards come in various types, such as IC cards and magnetic cards, and the payment terminal 53 reads the remaining balance on the prepaid card using a method appropriate for each type and makes the payment. The payment method using a rechargeable prepaid card is the same as the electronic money payment described above.

[0029] It should be noted that payment terminal 53 may perform payment using a payment method other than those described here. For example, payment terminal 53 may accept a combination of multiple payment methods, such as paying part of the amount with electronic money and the rest with cash. In addition, the various information output to payment terminal 53 may be output to customer-facing display 51 or POS terminal 40, and customer-facing display 51 or POS terminal 40 may display the accepted information.

[0030] When the checkout terminal 50 performs code payment, the scanner 60 reads the code information displayed on the mobile terminal carried by the customer. The scanner 60 is attached to a support 66 installed vertically on the top surface of the housing 32, and projects light emitted from an LED or a slit light generated by a laser onto the top surface 37 of the housing 32. The scanner 60 reads the code information held over the position of the slit light on the top surface 37 of the housing 32. The scanner 60 is an example of a reading unit in the present disclosure. The detailed structure of the scanner 60 will be described in more detail below (see Figures 4 and 5).

[0031] The change dispenser 80 is installed in the corner where the front surface 33 and top surface 37 of the housing 32 meet. When a customer makes a cash payment, the change dispenser 80 accepts inserted coins or banknotes and dispenses coins or banknotes as change. The area of ​​the change dispenser 80 is colored a different color from the other parts of the housing 32. This makes the location of the change dispenser 80 easy to understand for customers who operate it. The detailed structure of the change dispenser 80 will be described in more detail later (see Figure 3).

[0032] A receipt printer 90 is installed on the front surface 33 of the housing 32 below the change dispenser 80. The receipt printer 90 prints a receipt indicating the result of the payment and issues it from a receipt issuing port 91 on the front surface 33 of the housing 32.

[0033] A shelf 98 is installed on the side surface 36 on the negative side of the X-axis of the housing 32. When a customer performs payment processing, a shopping basket containing products that have been registered by a store clerk is placed on the shelf 98. The shelf 98 may also be installed on the side surface 35 on the positive side of the X-axis of the housing 32. Specifically, the shelf 98 is installed on a side that will not interfere with the flow of customers as much as possible, depending on the condition of the store in which the registration and settlement device 30 is installed.

[0034] Fig. 2 is a view from above and front of the registration and settlement apparatus 30 shown in Fig. 1. A store clerk operates the POS terminal 40 from the first direction Da shown in Fig. 2, facing the side surface 36 of the registration and settlement apparatus 30. The POS terminal 40 is installed so as to fit within the width direction (width Wa) of the housing 32 when viewed from the first direction Da. In addition, the depth of the POS terminal 40 is installed so as to fit within the width direction (width Wb) of the housing 32.

[0035] A customer operates the accounting terminal 50 from the second direction Db shown in FIG. 2 toward the front surface 33 of the registered settlement device 30. The accounting terminal 50 is installed so that it fits within the width direction (width Wb) of the housing 32 when viewed from the second direction Db. The total dimension of the depth of the accounting terminal 50 and the left-right width of the POS terminal 40 fits within the width direction (width Wa) of the housing 32. The width (width Wa) of the housing 32 when viewed from the first direction Da is made as small as possible, and the accounting terminal 50 is positioned so as not to interfere with the store clerk's operation of the POS terminal 40. The second direction Db is a different direction from the first direction Da, and in the example of FIG. 2, the first direction Da and the second direction Db differ by 90 degrees. Note that the difference between the first direction Da and the second direction Db is not limited to 90 degrees.

[0036] 2, the workspace of the store clerk and the workspace of the customer do not overlap. That is, there is no overlap between the workspace of the store clerk and the workspace of the customer.

[0037] In order to further expand the work space for the store clerk, the shelf 98 may be moved to the side 35 of the housing 32.

[0038] Next, the configuration of the main parts used by a customer who operates the accounting terminal 50 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0039] Directly below payment terminal 53, a red slit of light is emitted by an LED or laser beam from scanner 60 installed on the back side of payment terminal 53. The slit of light from scanner 60 is irradiated onto reading surface 70 formed on top surface 37 of housing 32, forming reading line 62. A customer making a payment by code payment displays code information, such as a barcode or two-dimensional code, to be read by payment terminal 53 on the screen of their own mobile terminal, and holds the displayed code information over the position of reading line 62 to have scanner 60 read the code information.

[0040] A customer making a payment by credit card has the registration information of their credit card read by the payment terminal 53. The reading method differs depending on whether the credit card has the registration information stored in a built-in IC chip, the registration information stored in a magnetic stripe, or a card that can be read contactlessly. Details will be described later (see Figures 6, 7, and 8).

[0041] The payment method is selected by making a selection on the selection screen displayed on the customer-facing display 51. A touch panel is superimposed on the screen of the customer-facing display 51, and the payment method can be selected by pressing the button displayed on the customer-facing display 51. Specific examples of selecting a payment method will be described later (see FIG. 18).

[0042] A customer who selects cash payment makes payment by inserting coins or bills into the change machine 80. The change machine 80 is equipped with a coin insertion port 81, a coin ejection port 82, a bill insertion port 83, a bill ejection port 84, a foreign object ejection port 85, and a foreign object ejection port 86.

[0043] The coin slot 81 is a slot into which coins are inserted for payment.

[0044] The coin outlet 82 is an outlet through which coins are dispensed as change.

[0045] The bill insertion slot 83 is an insertion slot through which bills for payment are inserted.

[0046] The bill outlet 84 is an outlet through which bills are dispensed as change.

[0047] The foreign matter discharge port 85 is a discharge port for discharging foreign matter inserted through the coin insertion port 81.

[0048] The foreign matter discharge port 86 is a discharge port for discharging foreign matter inserted through the bill insertion port 83.

[0049] The change dispenser 80 requires periodic maintenance to replenish coins and banknotes for change and to collect inserted coins and banknotes. The change dispenser 80 installed in the registered settlement device 30 can be managed by inserting a key into a keyhole 87 and opening the front cover forward using a hinge 89 as a pivot. This will be described in more detail later (see Figures 14 and 15).

[0050] A receipt printer 90 is installed below the change dispenser 80. The receipt printer 90 is installed inside the housing 32 and prints receipts indicating the payment result. The receipt printer 90 also issues the printed receipts from a receipt issuing port 91.

[0051] The receipt printer 90 requires periodic replenishment of receipt paper. To replenish receipt paper, insert a key into the keyhole 93 and pull out the front cover of the receipt printer 90. This will be explained in more detail later (see Figure 16).

[0052] (Outline of payment fixtures) The schematic configuration of the customer-facing display 51, payment terminal 53, and scanner 60 will be described using Figures 4 to 8. The customer-facing display 51, payment terminal 53, scanner 60, and the mounting members for fixing them will be collectively referred to as payment fixture 64. Figure 4 is an external view of the payment fixture provided in the settlement device of the embodiment. Figure 5 is a first side view showing the main configuration of the payment fixture. Figure 6 is a front view showing the main configuration of the payment fixture. Figure 7 is a second side view showing the main configuration of the payment fixture. Figure 8 is a third side view showing the main configuration of the payment fixture.

[0053] As shown in FIG. 4, the payment fixture 64 has a structure in which the customer-facing display 51, payment terminal 53, and scanner 60 are fixed to a support 66 extending vertically upward from the top surface 37 (see FIG. 3) of the housing 32. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 4, a scanner upper cover 71 incorporating the scanner 60 and a payment terminal mounting member 74 for fixing the payment terminal 53 are connected and fixed to each other. The customer-facing display 51 is attached to a display mounting member 79 on the back side. The scanner upper cover 71 and the display mounting member 79 are then fixed to the support 66. The base of the support 66 is provided with a flat reading surface 70, which serves as the base of the support and onto which the slit-shaped reading light (laser light) emitted by the scanner 60 is projected. A plurality of bolts extending downward (toward the negative side of the Z axis) are formed on the back side of the reading surface 70, and these bolts are inserted into bolt holes formed in the top surface 37 of the housing 32 and fixed with nuts from the back side of the top surface 37. This causes the surface of the reading surface 70 to form an integral flat surface with the top surface 37 of the housing 32. Because fixing members such as bolts and nuts are not exposed on the surface of the reading surface 70, there is no risk of the mobile terminal coming into contact with the fixing members when a customer holds the mobile terminal over the reading surface 70.

[0054] The scanner upper cover 71 accommodates a scanner 60, such as a typical handheld scanner, facing downward with its scanning light output facing forward (toward the customer). Specifically, the scanner 60 emits a slit-shaped scanning light 63 downward, projecting a scanning line 62 onto a scanning surface 70 fixed to the top surface 37 of the housing 32, i.e., a flat surface integral with the top surface 37 of the housing 32, as a guide when the customer holds their mobile device over the scanning surface 70 to read the code information. Because the customer can visually recognize the scanning line 62 projected onto the surface of the scanning surface 70, they can easily recognize the position where they should hold the code information displayed on their mobile device over the scanning surface 70. A sticker or the like, printed with information on the scanning position or the scanning procedure for the code information, may be affixed to the scanning surface 70. The scanner upper cover 71 is an example of an attachment cover in the present disclosure.

[0055] The payment terminal 53 is mounted on the payment terminal mounting member 74 with the display 54 and operation keys 55 facing the customer who is operating the payment fixture 64. The display 54 displays various information, such as guidance information related to the operation of the payment terminal 53 and information related to its operating status. The operation keys 55 are a numeric keypad for entering a personal identification number when operating the payment terminal 53. The payment terminal 53 also has a scan groove 57 for inserting and scanning the magnetic stripe of a card when reading a card with a magnetic stripe. The customer-facing display 51 is mounted side-by-side with the display 54 of the payment terminal 53 with the display surface facing the customer. The structure of the payment terminal mounting member 74 will be described in detail later (see FIG. 5). The payment terminal mounting member 74 is an example of a support member in this disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 5 is a side view of the payment fixture 64. The scanner 60 is housed inside the scanner upper cover 71. The scanner 60 is a typical handheld scanner. The scanner 60 is secured by the scanner lower cover 72 from its lower side (negative Z-axis side) with its upper side (positive Z-axis side) inserted into the scanner upper cover 71. The scanner 60 emits a reading light 63 downward (negative Z-axis side). Because the scanner upper cover 71 houses a typical handheld scanner, its depth (Y-axis direction) is larger than the depth of the payment terminal 53 and the depth of the customer-facing display 51. In the payment fixture 64 of this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the deeper portion of the scanner 60 is positioned behind the POS terminal 40. This allows the payment fixture 64 to be positioned in front of the POS terminal 40, i.e., in a position that does not interfere with the movement of a store clerk operating the store clerk-side display 42 and keyboard 43 from the first direction Da.

[0057] The front surface 73 of the scanner upper cover 71 is formed flat and protrudes toward the front (customer side) as it moves downward (negative side of the Z axis). The payment terminal mounting member 74 is fixed to the front surface 73 of the scanner upper cover 71 with screws.

[0058] The rear surface of the scanner upper cover 71 is provided with a notch through which the harness 61 of the scanner 60 passes (see FIG. 9).

[0059] A mobile terminal insertion space P, as shown in FIG. 5, is formed between the scanner 60 and the reading surface 70. A customer inserts a mobile terminal into this mobile terminal insertion space P and holds the code information displayed on the mobile terminal over the reading light 63, causing the scanner 60 to read the code information. Therefore, it is desirable that the mobile terminal insertion space P be large enough to allow the mobile terminal to be inserted in the depth direction (the Y-axis direction in FIG. 5) without coming into contact with other structures. Therefore, for example, in FIG. 2, a space is provided at the rear side of the scanner 60 (the positive side of the Y-axis) so that when the mobile terminal is inserted into the mobile terminal insertion space P, the mobile terminal and the main body 41 of the POS terminal 40 do not interfere with each other. Note that if the main body 41 of the POS terminal 40 is close to the rear side of the mobile terminal insertion space P, a portion of the main body 41 may be recessed to provide the mobile terminal insertion space P.

[0060] Payment terminal 53 is installed facing the customer, and its bottom and outer surfaces are held by payment terminal mounting member 74. Specifically, payment terminal mounting member 74 has both side surfaces in the X-axis direction held by side support parts 75. Payment terminal mounting member 74 also has its upper surface on the positive side in the Z-axis direction held by upper support part 76. Payment terminal mounting member 74 also has its lower surface on the lower side in the Z-axis direction held by lower support part 77.

[0061] The upper support portion 76 has a hole or cutout portion through which the harness 58 of the payment terminal 53 passes.

[0062] Lower support portion 77 also serves as guide surface 78 that guides the insertion of a card such as a credit card when the card is inserted into card insertion slot 56 formed in payment terminal 53. Guide surface 78 extends in approximately the same direction as front surface 73 of scanner upper cover 71, making it easy to insert a card into card insertion slot 56.

[0063] 6 shows how a card 95, such as a credit card with an IC chip, is being inserted into card insertion slot 56 of payment terminal 53. The customer inserts card 95 with an IC chip into card insertion slot 56 from the underside of payment terminal 53 along insertion direction Dc. At this time, card 95 is guided along front surface 73 and guide surface 78 of scanner upper cover 71, allowing the customer to easily insert the card.

[0064] Furthermore, to facilitate the insertion of the card 95, the distance from the card insertion slot 56 to the reading surface 70 is ensured to be long enough so as not to impede the insertion operation of the card 95.

[0065] 7 shows how a card 95 with a magnetic stripe is inserted into the scan slot 57 of the payment terminal 53 and scanned. The customer inserts the card 95 with a magnetic stripe into the upper end of the scan slot 57 of the payment terminal 53 and, while keeping it inserted, slides it along the scan direction Dd.

[0066] At this time, in order to make it easier to scan the card 95, sufficient space is secured above (positive side of the Z axis) and below (negative side of the Z axis) the scan groove 57.

[0067] 8 shows how card 95 capable of short-range wireless communication such as NFC (Near Field Communication) is brought close to payment terminal 53 to have information registered on the card read by payment terminal 53. The customer brings card 95 capable of short-range wireless communication close to the position of a wireless communication antenna provided on payment terminal 53, for example, around display unit 54, to have payment terminal 53 read the card information.

[0068] (Assembly structure of payment fixtures) The assembly structure of the payment fixture 64 will be explained using Figures 9 to 13. Figure 9 is a first exploded oblique view of the payment fixture. Figure 10 is a second exploded oblique view of the payment fixture. Figure 11 is a third exploded oblique view of the payment fixture. Figure 12 is a fourth exploded oblique view of the payment fixture. Figure 13 is an external view of the rear side of the assembled payment fixture.

[0069] 9, the scanner 60 is housed in the scanner upper cover 71 from above (rear side) with the scanning light output port facing the negative side of the Z axis. Then, the scanner lower cover 72 is placed on the scanner 60 from below (front side). The scanner lower cover 72 is screwed to the scanner upper cover 71 to fix the scanner 60. Note that a notch is formed in the rear surface (the surface on the positive side of the Y axis) of the scanner upper cover 71 to allow the harness 61 of the scanner 60 to pass through.

[0070] A payment terminal attachment member 74 is screwed to the front surface 73 of the scanner upper cover 71. Then, as described above, the payment terminal 53 is fixed to the payment terminal attachment member 74 (see FIGS. 4, 5, and 6).

[0071] As shown in Fig. 10, the scanner upper cover 71 housing the scanner 60 and the payment terminal mounting member 74 on which the payment terminal 53 is mounted are fastened with bolts to support posts 66 mounted on the reading surface 70. Note that a mounting bolt 67 for connecting to the top surface 37 (see Fig. 3) of the housing 32 is formed on the bottom surface of the reading surface 70. The mounting bolt 67 is inserted into a bolt hole formed in the top surface 37 of the housing 32 and fixed with a nut from the back side of the top surface 37.

[0072] FIG. 11 is an exploded perspective view showing the mounting structure of the customer-facing display 51. A display support member 46 is attached to the back of the customer-facing display 51, holding the customer-facing display 51 at an appropriate tilt angle so that it is easily visible to customers. An L-shaped display mounting member 79 is then screwed to the display support member 46. The display support member 46 may also be equipped with a mechanism that can adjust the tilt angle of the customer-facing display 51. This improves visibility for customers when viewing the customer-facing display 51.

[0073] 12, the display mounting member 79 with the customer-facing display 51 attached is screwed to the surface of the support 66 opposite to the side where the scanner 60 and payment terminal 53 are attached. Then, the cover member 48 is attached to the support 66 from the side where the customer-facing display 51 is attached. The harness 59 of the customer-facing display 51 is routed through a notch formed in the bottom end of the cover member 48.

[0074] The cover member 48 thus attached is screwed to the support posts 66 from both the positive side and the negative side in the Y-axis direction, as shown in FIG.

[0075] (How to maintain a change machine) 14 and 15, a maintenance method for the change dispenser 80 provided in the registration settlement device 30 will be described. Fig. 14 is an external perspective view showing the settlement device with the change dispenser cover open. Fig. 15 is a side view showing the settlement device with the change dispenser cover open.

[0076] The front side (the side facing the front surface 33 of the housing 32) and the top side (the side facing the top surface 37 of the housing 32) of the change machine 80 are covered by a change machine cover 88. When performing maintenance on the change machine 80, an operator inserts a key into a keyhole 87 (see FIG. 3 ) provided in the change machine cover 88 and turns it to unlock the change machine cover 88 and open the change machine cover 88 toward the front surface 33 of the housing 32. The change machine cover 88 rotates around two hinges 89 provided on the front surface 33 of the housing 32 to open toward the front surface 33 of the housing 32.

[0077] When maintenance of the change machine 80 is completed, the worker closes the change machine cover 88 by rotating it in the opposite direction to that in which it was opened. That is, the change machine cover 88 opens and closes in the opening and closing direction De shown in FIG.

[0078] After the change machine cover 88 is closed, the worker turns the key inserted into the keyhole 87 in the opposite direction to when the change machine cover 88 was unlocked, thereby locking the change machine cover 88.

[0079] As shown in Figure 15, when the change machine cover 88 is opened or closed, the vertex A of the change machine cover 88 traces an opening and closing trajectory R. Because the registration and settlement device 30 does not have any structures within the range of the opening and closing trajectory R, ​​an operator can smoothly open the change machine cover 88 and perform maintenance on the change machine 80. Although the settlement fixture 64 is installed on the top surface 37 of the housing 32, it does not interfere with the opening and closing of the change machine cover 88.

[0080] (How to maintain your receipt printer) A maintenance method for the receipt printer 90 provided in the registration and settlement device 30 will be described with reference to Figure 16. Figure 16 is an external perspective view showing the receipt printer provided in the registration and settlement device in an open state.

[0081] When the receipt printer 90 runs out of receipt paper, the worker inserts a key into the keyhole 93 provided on the front cover 92 of the receipt printer 90, which is openably mounted on the front surface 33 of the housing 32, and turns the key to unlock the front cover 92. The worker then pulls the front cover 92 forward to expose the receipt printer 90 stored inside the housing 32. In this state, the worker can refill receipt paper, etc.

[0082] When the work is complete, the worker moves the front cover 92 in the opposite direction from when it was pulled out, and stores the receipt printer 90 inside the housing 32. That is, the change machine cover 88 opens and closes in the opening and closing direction Df shown in FIG.

[0083] After the change machine cover 88 is closed, the worker turns the key inserted into the keyhole 93 in the opposite direction to that used to unlock the change machine cover 88, thereby locking the change machine cover 88.

[0084] Furthermore, if the change machine cover 88 is opened while the receipt printer 90 is pulled out from the housing 32, the change machine cover 88 will interfere with the receipt printer 90. For this reason, it is desirable to make it so that the front cover 92 of the receipt printer 90 cannot be unlocked when the change machine cover 88 is unlocked, and conversely, to make it so that the change machine cover 88 cannot be unlocked when the front cover 92 of the receipt printer 90 is unlocked.

[0085] (The screen displayed on the POS terminal's clerk side display) An example of a screen displayed on the clerk-side display 42 of the POS terminal 40 will be described with reference to Fig. 17. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the clerk-side display.

[0086] 17 is displayed on the clerk's display 42. The payment status monitor screen 110 is a screen for monitoring the status of the payment being made by the customer at the registered settlement device 30.

[0087] The payment status monitor screen 110 displays the number of items 120, payment amount 121, remaining payment amount 122, payment method 125, selected payment method 126, guidance information 127, and payment cancellation button 128.

[0088] The number of items 120 is the number of items that are the subject of payment.

[0089] The payment amount 121 is the total amount of the purchased items to be settled.

[0090] The remaining payment amount 122 is the amount that has not yet been settled. When the settlement is completed at the registered settlement device 30, 0 yen is displayed in the remaining payment amount 122 field.

[0091] Payment method 125 is a selection that indicates the payment methods that can be handled.

[0092] The selected payment method 126 is the payment method selected by the customer at the registered settlement device 30.

[0093] Guidance information 127 is guidance according to the selected payment method 126. In the example of FIG. 17, payment by credit card has been selected, so the column for guidance information 127 displays how to operate payment terminal 53 according to the type of credit card. If the customer's payment process is delayed at registered settlement device 30, the store clerk will refer to the information shown in guidance information 127 and speak to the customer, etc.

[0094] The payment cancellation button 128 is a button that forcibly stops the payment operation that the customer is performing at the registered settlement device 30.

[0095] When a customer makes a credit card payment, the customer's credit card information read by the registration and settlement device 30 is output to an external server device. The external server device then obtains approval for the credit card payment. If approval for the credit card payment is obtained, this information is transmitted to the registration and settlement device 30, and the payment process is completed. If approval for the credit card payment is not obtained from the external server device, this information is transmitted to the registration and settlement device 30 along with the reason for the non-approval. Reasons for non-approval include, for example, "expired credit card," "insufficient balance," or "payment request using an invalid credit card due to a loss report, etc." If the store clerk operating the POS terminal 40 obtains information indicating that approval for the credit card payment has not been obtained, the store clerk presses the payment cancel button 128 to forcibly stop the payment operation. The store clerk then explains the situation to the customer operating the registration and settlement device 30 and instructs them to perform the payment operation by another means.

[0096] (Screen displayed on the customer-facing display of the payment device) 18 and 19, examples of screens displayed on the customer-facing display 51 of the registration and settlement device 30 will be described. Fig. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a payment method selection screen displayed on the customer-facing display. Fig. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a payment processing screen displayed on the customer-facing display.

[0097] 18 is displayed on the customer-facing display 51. The payment method selection screen 111 is a screen on which the registered settlement device 30 prompts the customer to select a payment method.

[0098] The payment method selection screen 111 displays a payment amount 130, a payment method selection button 131, a store clerk call button 132, and a back button 133.

[0099] The payment amount 130 is the total amount of the purchased items to be settled.

[0100] The payment method selection button 131 is a selection button that indicates available payment methods. Note that the available payment methods are not limited to the example shown in Fig. 18. For example, the customer can select a payment method that is not displayed in Fig. 18 by swiping the payment method selection screen 111.

[0101] The store clerk call button 132 is a button that can be pressed to call a store clerk when the user does not know how to operate it.

[0102] The back button 133 is a button for canceling the current operation and returning to the previous screen (the screen one level higher).

[0103] The customer selects a payment method by pressing the payment method selection button 131 on the payment method selection screen 111.

[0104] 19 is displayed on the customer-facing display 51. The payment processing screen 112 is a screen on which the registered settlement device 30 informs the customer of the payment method and payment amount.

[0105] The payment processing screen 112 displays a store clerk call button 132, a back button 133, guidance information 127, and payment information 134.

[0106] The store clerk call button 132 and the back button 133 are as described above (see FIG. 18).

[0107] The guidance information 127 is as described above (see FIG. 17).

[0108] The payment information 134 is information related to the payment method, and includes information such as the payment amount and the payment method.

[0109] (First Modification of the Embodiment) A first modified example of the registration and settlement device 30 of the embodiment will be described using Figures 20 and 21. Figure 20 is an external perspective view showing an example of the first modified example of the registration and settlement device. Figure 21 is a top view showing an example of the first modified example of the registration and settlement device.

[0110] 20 is a registration and settlement device 301 in which the orientation of the POS terminal 40 operated by the store clerk is reversed in the X-axis direction in the above-mentioned registration and settlement device 30. In addition, the shelf 98 installed on the side surface 36 of the housing 32 in the registration and settlement device 30 is installed on the side surface 35 of the housing 32 in the registration and settlement device 301.

[0111] The store clerk operates the POS terminal 40 from the first direction Da shown in Fig. 21 toward the side surface 35 of the registration and settlement device 301. The POS terminal 40 is installed so as to fit within the width direction (width Wa) of the housing 32 when viewed from the first direction Da.

[0112] A customer operates the accounting terminal 50 from the second direction Db shown in Figure 21 toward the front surface 33 of the registered settlement device 301. The accounting terminal 50 is installed so that it fits within the width direction (width Wb) of the housing 32 when viewed from the second direction Db.

[0113] In the registration and settlement device 301, the store clerk operating the POS terminal 40 and the customer operating the accounting terminal 50 can perform their operations without interfering with each other. The mobile terminal insertion space P (see FIG. 5) described above is formed below the scanner 60. In order to ensure as large a mobile terminal insertion space P as possible, a recess that avoids interference with the mobile terminal may be formed by cutting out part of the main body 41 of the POS terminal 40 where the main body 41 and the housing 32 meet.

[0114] The location where the shelf 98 is installed is not limited to the side surface 35 of the housing 32. The shelf 98 may be installed on the side surface 36 of the housing 32 of the registration settlement apparatus 301.

[0115] (Second Modification of the Embodiment) A second modified example of the registered settlement device 30 of the embodiment will be described using Figures 22 and 23. Figure 22 is an external perspective view showing an example of the second modified example of the settlement device. Figure 23 is a top view showing an example of the second modified example of the settlement device.

[0116] The registration and settlement device 302 shown in Figure 22 is the same as the registration and settlement device 30 described above, except that the POS terminal 40 operated by the store clerk is positioned facing the positive side of the Y axis. In other words, the POS terminal 40 and the registration and settlement device 30 are positioned facing each other. Furthermore, the shelf 98 that was installed on the side surface 36 of the housing 32 in the registration and settlement device 301 is installed on the side surface 35 of the housing 32.

[0117] The store clerk operates the POS terminal 40 from the first direction Da shown in Fig. 23 toward the rear surface 34 of the registration and settlement device 302. The POS terminal 40 is installed so as to fit within the width direction (width Wb) of the housing 32 when viewed from the first direction Da.

[0118] A customer operates the accounting terminal 50 from the second direction Db shown in Figure 23 toward the front surface 33 of the registered settlement device 302. The accounting terminal 50 is installed so that it fits within the width direction (width Wb) of the housing 32 when viewed from the second direction Db.

[0119] In the registration and settlement device 302, the store clerk operating the POS terminal 40 and the customer operating the accounting terminal 50 can perform their operations without interfering with each other. The mobile terminal insertion space P (see FIG. 5) described above is formed below the scanner 60. In order to ensure as large a mobile terminal insertion space P as possible, a recess that avoids interference with the mobile terminal may be formed by cutting out part of the main body 41 of the POS terminal 40 where the main body 41 and the housing 32 meet.

[0120] The location where the shelf 98 is installed is not limited to the side surface 35 of the housing 32. The shelf 98 may be installed on the side surface 36 of the housing 32 of the registration settlement apparatus 301.

[0121] (Example of operation of payment device) An example of operation of the registration and settlement devices 30, 301, and 302 in a store will be described with reference to Fig. 24. Fig. 24 is an external view showing an example of operation of the registration and settlement devices in a store.

[0122] A merchandise sales data processing system 10 including at least one pair of an input device 20 and a registration and settlement device 30 is installed in the store.

[0123] The input device 20 reads a code symbol such as a barcode attached to a product purchased by a customer through an input operation by a store clerk. The input device 20 includes a vertical scanner 22, a store clerk-side display 23, and a customer-side display 24.

[0124] The vertical scanner 22 has a reading window facing the store clerk. When the store clerk holds a product in his / her hand over the reading window, the code symbol, such as a barcode, attached to the product is read and the product code indicated by the read code symbol is output to the POS terminal 40. After acquiring the product code, the POS terminal 40 performs product registration, registering product information based on the product code. The vertical scanner 22 inputs the product code by specifying the product via a preset key displayed on the store clerk-side display 23. The vertical scanner 22 may also capture an image of the product itself. In this case, the POS terminal 40 may perform registration processing by recognizing the product based on the feature values ​​of the product shown in the captured image and identifying the product information of the product. The vertical scanner 22 may also be a handheld scanner operated by the store clerk. The vertical scanner 22 may also perform product registration processing on behalf of the POS terminal 40 and output the registered product information to the registration and settlement device 30, which executes the settlement processing.

[0125] The clerk-side display 23 is a touch panel monitor that has a display function for monitoring the product registration results, etc., and a function for accepting operations such as inputting the number of products instead of inputting the same product information multiple times, and an input completion instruction when the product code input is complete. The clerk-side display 23 may be configured to accept an output instruction to the registration and settlement device 30 for the input product code.

[0126] The customer-facing display 24 is a touch panel monitor that has a display function for monitoring the input results of product information, etc., and an operation function for inputting age verification information when registering age-targeted products.

[0127] When a customer has finished shopping (selecting products), they place the shopping basket containing the products on basket stand 26 next to input device 20. A store clerk then takes the products out of the shopping basket and inputs the product codes by scanning them with vertical scanner 22. The store clerk then places the products, whose product codes have been entered, into the shopping basket placed on product stand 27.

[0128] Once the entry of product codes for all products has been completed, the store clerk operates an operation key on the input device 20 or POS terminal 40 to complete product registration. The operation key is an operation key for enabling the product registration information (or transaction information) registered based on the entered product codes to be settled at the registration settlement device 30. Upon receiving input based on the operation of the operation key, the registration settlement device 30 makes the product registration information available for settlement at the accounting terminal 50. In other words, the registration settlement device 30 makes the accounting terminal 50 available to accept payment-related operations from the customer. The store clerk then instructs the customer to make payment at the registration settlement device 30.

[0129] Upon receiving the instruction, the customer moves to the registered settlement device 30. The customer then performs the payment operation on the accounting terminal 50 of the registered settlement device 30.

[0130] In this way, the pair of input device 20 and registration and settlement device 30 constitutes a minimum configuration product sales data processing system capable of inputting the product code of the product to be purchased, registering product information based on the input product code, and making payments.

[0131] The merchandise sales data processing system 10 shown in Figure 24 is an example having multiple pairs of input devices 20 and registration and settlement devices 30. That is, the merchandise sales data processing system 10 has two input devices 20 and 21 and three registration and settlement devices 30, 301, and 302. The two input devices 20 and 21 have exactly the same configuration. Furthermore, as mentioned above, the three registration and settlement devices 30, 301, and 302 are arranged in different directions relative to the operation direction of the store clerk and the operation direction of the customer.

[0132] The two input devices 20 and 21 and the three registered and settled devices 30, 301, and 302 are arranged in a configuration that corresponds to the layout of the store. Fig. 24 shows an example of a two-lane arrangement that basically forms a customer flow line from the input device 20 to the registered and settled device 30, and a customer flow line from the input device 21 to the registered and settled device 301. When the store is crowded with customers, the input device 20 or the input device 21 can guide customers to the third registered and settled device 302.

[0133] The registered settlement device 30, the registered settlement device 301, and the registered settlement device 302 each have a different positional relationship between the first direction Da operated by the store clerk and the second direction Db operated by the customer, and are arranged so that even when the three registered settlement devices 30, 301, and 302 are used simultaneously, there is no interference between customers, store clerks, or customers and store clerks.

[0134] The number and arrangement of the input devices and registration and settlement devices that make up the product sales data processing system 10 are not limited to those shown in the example of FIG.

[0135] In the above configuration, for example, a product code input to input device 20 is output from input device 20 to registration and settlement device 30. Upon acquiring the product code, registration and settlement device 30 registers the product and outputs this product code to registration and settlement device 302. Upon acquiring the output product code, registration and settlement device 302 registers product information based on the same product code as the product code registered by registration and settlement device 30. In this case, the same product registration information is generated in registration and settlement device 30 and registration and settlement device 302, but the registration and settlement device that becomes ready for payment first, or the registration and settlement device that accepts a customer operation first, may start the payment process, and the other registration and settlement device that acquires a signal from the registration and settlement device indicating that the payment process has started may delete the product registration information. Note that the method of outputting the product codes to the registration settlement device 30 and the registration settlement device 302 individually each time they are input into the input device 20 is not limited to this, but may be such that when it is accepted that input of all product codes relating to the transaction into the input device 20 has been completed, the product codes are output from the input device 20 to the registration settlement device 30 and are also transferred from the registration settlement device 30 to the registration settlement device 302. The method of outputting the product codes to the registration settlement device 302 is not limited to the above.

[0136] (Third Modification of the Embodiment) A third modified example of the registration settlement device 30 of the embodiment will be described with reference to Figure 25. Figure 25 is an external perspective view showing an example of the third modified example of the settlement device.

[0137] The registration and settlement device 303 shown in Figure 25 has a customer-facing display 52 instead of the customer-facing display 51 that is provided in the registration and settlement devices 30, 301, and 302 described above. The customer-facing display 52 has the same functions as the customer-facing display 51 and is, for example, a 12-inch LCD monitor or organic EL monitor. A touch panel is laminated on the display surface of the customer-facing display 52, and customers can give operation instructions to the accounting terminal 50 by pressing various buttons displayed on the customer-facing display 52. ​​In other words, the registration and settlement device 303 has an accounting terminal 50 that has a customer-facing display 52, a payment terminal 53, and a scanner 60. The rest of the configuration of the registration and settlement device 303 is the same as that of the registration and settlement devices 30, 301, and 302.

[0138] The registration and settlement device 303 is equipped with a larger customer-facing display 52 instead of the customer-facing display 51 equipped on the registration and settlement devices 30, 301, and 302, so that information can be displayed more clearly to customers. Also, the various operation buttons installed on the customer-facing display 52 can be displayed larger, so that the operability of the buttons can be improved.

[0139] (Configuration of payment fixtures) The customer-facing display 52, payment terminal 53, scanner 60, and the mounting members for fixing them are collectively referred to as payment fixture 65. Below, the schematic configuration of payment fixture 65 will be explained using Figures 26 and 27. Figure 26 is an external perspective view of the front side of the payment fixture provided in the settlement device of the third modified example. Figure 27 is an external perspective view of the back side of the payment fixture provided in the settlement device of the third modified example.

[0140] Payment fixture 65 is fixed to top surface 37 (see FIG. 25) of housing 32. In payment fixture 65, scanner 60 is built into scanner upper cover 71. Payment terminal 53 is fixed to payment terminal mounting member 74. Scanner upper cover 71 and payment terminal mounting member 74 are then connected to each other and fixed to support column 66 erected from reading surface 70. The structure of this part is the same as the exploded structure described in FIG. 10.

[0141] Since customer-facing display 52 is larger and heavier than customer-facing display 51 described in the first embodiment, it is attached to a support 660 that stands upright from base 700. That is, in payment fixture 64 described in the first embodiment, scanner 60, payment terminal 53, and customer-facing display 52 are all fixed to support 66, whereas in payment fixture 65, scanner 60 and payment terminal 53 are fixed to support 66, and customer-facing display 52 is fixed to support 660. Note that although reading surface 70 and base 700 are separate in FIG. 26 , reading surface 70 and base 700 may be formed integrally.

[0142] 26, multiple mounting bolts extending toward the negative side of the Z axis are formed on the back side of the reading surface 70 and the base 700, similar to the reading surface 70 provided on the payment fixture 64 (see FIG. 10). These mounting bolts are inserted into bolt holes formed in the top surface 37 of the housing 32 and fixed with nuts from the back side of the top surface 37.

[0143] As shown in Figure 27, a display support member 460 is attached to the back of the customer-facing display 52, holding the customer-facing display 52 at an appropriate tilt angle so that it is easily visible to customers. The display support member 460 is then connected to and fixed at the upper end of a support column 660. The display support member 460 may also be equipped with a mechanism that can adjust the tilt angle of the customer-facing display 51. This can improve the visibility of the customer-facing display 51 when the customer views it.

[0144] The support 660 is formed in a rectangular cylindrical shape with a space inside, and the harness 590 of the customer-facing display 52 passes through the inside of the support 660 and is wired through a notch formed at the bottom end of the support 660.

[0145] (Example of screen displayed on customer display) An example of a screen displayed on the customer-side display 52 will be described with reference to Figures 28 and 29. Figure 28 is a first diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the customer-side display of Figure 25. Figure 29 is a second diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the customer-side display of Figure 25.

[0146] For example, a payment method selection screen 113 shown in Fig. 28 is displayed on the customer-side display 52. ​​The payment method selection screen 113 is a screen on which the registered settlement device 303 prompts the customer to select a payment method.

[0147] The payment method selection screen 113 displays a payment amount 130, a payment method selection button 131, a store clerk call button 132, and a back button 133. All of this information is the same as the information contained in the payment method selection screen 111 (see FIG. 18) displayed on the customer-facing display 51 described above.

[0148] 29 is displayed on the customer-facing display 52. ​​The payment processing screen 114 is a screen on which the registered settlement device 303 notifies the customer of the payment method and payment amount.

[0149] The payment processing screen 114 displays a store clerk call button 132, a back button 133, guidance information 127, and payment information 134. All of this information is the same as the information included in the payment processing screen 112 (see FIG. 19) displayed on the customer-facing display 51 described above.

[0150] Customer-facing display 52 displays the same information as that displayed on customer-facing display 51, but in a larger size, making it easier for customers to recognize the displayed information.

[0151] (Hardware configuration of product sales data processing system) The hardware configuration of the merchandise sales data processing system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 30. Fig. 30 is a hardware block diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the merchandise sales data processing system according to the embodiment.

[0152] The product sales data processing system 10 comprises a control unit 140, a memory unit 144, a peripheral device controller 145 that controls the peripheral devices of the POS terminal 40, a peripheral device controller 147 that controls the peripheral devices of the accounting terminal 50, an input / output interface 146 that receives and transmits information from various input / output devices equipped in the input device 20, and a communication interface 148.

[0153] The control unit 140 controls the overall operation of the product sales data processing system 10. The control unit 140 includes a CPU 141, a ROM 142, and a RAM 143.

[0154] The CPU 141 controls all the components of the product sales data processing system 10 .

[0155] The ROM 142 stores various programs and data.

[0156] The RAM 143 is a workspace for storing various programs and data.

[0157] The storage unit 144 stores a control program that controls the product sales data processing system, a product master that is a master file that stores product information, and product information acquired from the input device 20. The storage unit 144 is configured with a storage medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or a flash memory.

[0158] The peripheral device controller 145 is connected to the store clerk display 42 and the keyboard 43. The peripheral device controller 145 transmits and receives information between the control unit 140 and the peripheral devices connected to the peripheral device controller 145.

[0159] The accounting terminal 50 (customer-facing display 51, settlement terminal 53, scanner 60, change dispenser 80) is connected to the peripheral device controller 147. The receipt printer 90 is also connected to the peripheral device controller 147. The peripheral device controller 147 transmits and receives information between the control unit 140 and the peripheral devices connected to the peripheral device controller 147.

[0160] The input / output interface 146 is connected to the vertical scanner 22, the staff-side display 23, and the customer-side display 24 provided in the input device 20.

[0161] The communication interface 148 controls communication between the registration and settlement device 30 and an external server device (not shown). For example, when a customer makes a credit card payment at the payment terminal 53, the communication interface 148 allows communication between the registration and settlement device 30 and the external server that performs the credit card payment.

[0162] Although it has been described here that the control unit 140 controls the entire product sales data processing system 10, each unit that makes up the product sales data processing system 10 may have its own independent control unit.

[0163] (Processing flow performed by the product sales data processing system) The flow of processing performed by the merchandise sales data processing system 10 will be described with reference to Fig. 31. Fig. 31 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the merchandise sales data processing system of the embodiment.

[0164] First, the flow of processing performed by the input device 20 will be described.

[0165] The input device 20 reads the product code (product identification information) by reading the code information registered in a code symbol such as a barcode attached to a product held over the vertical scanner 22, or by accepting the operation of a preset key to which a product code is previously associated (step S11).

[0166] The input device 20 outputs the read product code to the registration and settlement device 30 (step S12).

[0167] The input device 20 determines whether the reading of the product code is complete (step S13). If it is determined that the reading of the product code is complete (step S13: Yes), the input device 20 ends the processing of FIG. 31. Then, the store clerk operating the input device 20 selects an available registered settlement device and transfers the product information to the selected registered settlement device. The store clerk operating the input device 20 also informs the customer of the location of the registered settlement device to which the product information has been transferred. Alternatively, the input device 20 may display the location of the registered settlement device to which the product information has been transferred on the customer-facing display 24. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the reading of the product code is complete (step S13: No), the processing returns to step S11. Whether the reading of the product code is complete is determined, for example, by pressing the subtotal button displayed on the store clerk-side display 23.

[0168] Here, the input device 20 is configured to output the read product code to the registration and settlement device each time it reads a product code, but the input device 20 may output the read product codes together to the registration and settlement device after reading all the product codes.

[0169] Next, the flow of processing performed by the registration and settlement device 30 will be described.

[0170] The registration and settlement device 30 acquires the product code from the input device 20, and acquires product information from the product master based on the acquired product code (step S21).

[0171] The registration and settlement device 30 performs a product registration process to register the acquired product information as product registration information to be settled (step S22).

[0172] Next, the registration and settlement device 30 displays a payment status monitor screen (see FIG. 17) on the store clerk-side display 42. The registration and settlement device 30 also displays a payment method selection screen (see FIG. 18) on the customer-side display 51 (step S23).

[0173] The registration and settlement device 30 acquires the payment method selected by the customer on the payment method selection screen (step S24).

[0174] The registration and settlement device 30 performs the settlement process using the selected payment method, or causes an external server device (not shown) to perform the settlement process (step S25).

[0175] After the payment is completed, the registration and settlement device 30 causes the receipt printer 90 to issue a receipt on which the payment details are printed (step S26). After that, the registration and settlement device 30 ends the processing of FIG.

[0176] (Effects of the embodiment) As described above, the registration settlement device 30 (settlement device) of the embodiment is installed in a single housing 32 so as to fit within the width direction of the housing 32 when viewed from a first direction Da, and is equipped with a POS terminal 40 (product registration information generation unit) that is operated by a store clerk from the first direction Da to generate product registration information that registers product information for products purchased by customers, and an accounting terminal 50 (payment processing unit) that is installed so as to fit within the width direction of the housing 32 when viewed from a second direction Db different from the first direction Da, and is operated by a customer from the second direction Db to make payments related to the product registration information obtained from the POS terminal 40. The accounting terminal 50 includes a customer-facing display 51 (operation receiving unit) that displays selection information for selecting a payment method and receives selection operations for the selection information; a scanner 60 (reading unit) that, when performing code payment, illuminates a reading light 63 from above onto the top surface 37 of the housing 32 and reads code information related to the payment from a mobile terminal held up to the reading light 63; and a payment terminal 53 that is installed side-by-side with the customer-facing display 51 on the customer's side of the scanner 60 and reads information registered on a card 95 when performing credit card payment. These components are fixed to a support 66 extending upward from the top surface 37 of the housing 32. This allows for both a compact registration and settlement device 30 and improved operability for customer payment operations. More specifically, the POS terminal 40 and accounting terminal 50 can be positioned in the housing 32 so that the actions of the store clerk operating the POS terminal 40 and the actions of the customer operating the accounting terminal 50 do not interfere with each other. Furthermore, by installing the scanner 60 above the top surface 37 of the housing 32, it is possible to improve the operability when having the scanner 60 read the code information displayed on the mobile terminal. Furthermore, the customer can perform the payment operation without having to move their line of sight significantly from the customer-facing display 51 to the payment terminal 53, thereby improving the operability of the payment operation.

[0177] Furthermore, in the registration and settlement device 30 (payment device) of this embodiment, the scanner 60 (reading unit) is housed in a scanner upper cover 71 (mounting cover) fixed to a support 66 so that the reading light 63 is irradiated downward onto a reading surface 70 formed on the upper surface 37 of the housing 32, and a payment terminal mounting member 74 (support member) that supports the bottom surface and outer peripheral side surface of the payment terminal 53 is installed on the front surface of the scanner upper cover 71 on the customer side. Therefore, a space (mobile terminal insertion space P in FIG. 5) into which a mobile terminal can be held can be formed between the scanner 60 and the reading surface 70, improving operability when the customer has the scanner 60 read code information displayed on their mobile terminal.

[0178] Furthermore, in the registered settlement device 30 (settlement device) of the embodiment, a card insertion slot 56 for inserting a card 95 (credit card) is formed on the lower side of the settlement terminal 53 supported by the settlement terminal attachment member 74 (support member), and the portion of the settlement terminal attachment member 74 that supports the lower side supports the lower side while avoiding the card insertion slot 56, forming a guide surface 78 for inserting the card 95 into the card insertion slot 56. Therefore, the card 95 can be inserted along the guide surface 78, improving the operability when a customer inserts the card 95 into the settlement terminal 53.

[0179] Furthermore, in the registered settlement device 30 (settlement device) of the embodiment, the payment terminal 53 is installed between the top surface 37 of the housing 32 and the card insertion slot 56 at a height that does not interfere with the customer's operation of inserting the card 95. Therefore, the operability when the customer inserts the card 95 into the payment terminal 53 can be improved.

[0180] Furthermore, in the registered settlement device 30 (settlement device) of the embodiment, the accounting terminal 50 (payment processing unit) is further equipped with a change machine having a coin inlet 81 into which coins are inserted, a coin outlet 82 from which coins are dispensed as change, a banknote inlet 83 into which banknotes are inserted, and a banknote outlet 84 from which banknotes are dispensed as change, and the coin inlet 81, coin outlet 82, banknote inlet 83, and banknote outlet 84 are arranged side by side facing the customer. This improves operability for customers when making cash payments.

[0181] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are merely examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. This novel embodiment 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 and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the inventions and their equivalents as defined in the claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0182] 10. Product sales data processing system 20,21 Input devices 22 Vertical Scanner 23 Clerk side display 24 Customer display 26 Basket stand 27 Product stand 30, 301, 302, 303 Registration settlement device (settlement device) 32 Case 33 Front 34 Back 35,36 Side 37 Top side 40 POS terminal (product registration information generation unit) 41 Main Unit 42 Clerk side display 43 Keyboard 46,460 Display support member 48 Cover member 50 Accounting terminal (payment processing unit) 51,52 Customer surface display 53 Payment terminal 54 Display section 55 Operation keys 56 Card slot 57 Scan groove 58 Harness 59 Harness 60 Scanner 61 Harness 62 Reading line 63 Reading light 64,65 Payment fixtures 66, 660 pillar 67 Mounting bolt 70 Reading surface 71 Scanner top cover (mounting cover) 72 Scanner bottom cover 73 Front 74 Payment terminal mounting member (support member) 75 Lateral support 76 Upper support part 77 Lower support part 78 Guide surface 79 Display mounting member 80 Change machine 81 Coin slot 82 Coin ejection port 83 Bill slot 84 Bill ejection port 85,86 Foreign matter outlet 87 Keyhole 88 Change machine cover 89 Hinge 90 Receipt Printer 91 Receipt issuing port 92 Front cover 93 Keyhole 95 Cards 98 shelves 110 Payment status monitor screen 111,113 Payment method selection screen 112,114 Payment processing screen 120 products 121 Payment amount 122 remaining balance 125 Payment Methods 126 Selected payment method 127 Information 128 Cancel payment button 130 Payment amount 131 Payment method selection button 132 Store attendant call button 133 Back button 134 Payment Information 590 Harness 700 pedestal A vertex Da 1st direction Db 2nd direction DC insertion direction Dd Scan Direction De, Df Opening and closing direction R opening / closing trajectory Wa, Wb width [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0183] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-068695

Claims

1. In one housing, a product registration information generation unit that is installed so as to fit within the width direction of the housing as viewed from a first direction and that is operated by a store clerk from the first direction to generate product registration information that registers product information of products purchased by customers; a payment processing unit that is installed to fit within the width direction of the housing when viewed from a second direction different from the first direction, and that is operated by a customer from the second direction to perform a payment related to the product registration information acquired from the product registration information generation unit, The payment processing unit an operation receiving unit that displays selection information for selecting a payment method and receives a selection operation for the selection information; a reading unit that, when performing code payment, irradiates a reading light from above onto the upper surface of the housing and reads code information related to payment from a mobile terminal held up to the reading light; a payment terminal that is installed side by side with the operation reception unit on the customer's side of the reading unit and that reads information registered on a credit card when making a credit card payment, and is fixed to a support that extends upward from the top surface of the housing; Payment device.

2. The reading unit is accommodated in a mounting cover fixed to the support so as to irradiate the reading light downward onto an upper surface of the housing, A support member is installed on the front surface of the mounting cover on the customer side to support the bottom surface and outer peripheral side surface of the payment terminal. The settlement device according to claim 1.

3. An insertion slot for inserting the credit card is formed on a lower side of the payment terminal supported by the support member, and a portion of the support member that supports the lower side supports the lower side while avoiding the insertion slot, thereby forming a guide surface for inserting the credit card into the insertion slot. The settlement device according to claim 2.

4. The payment terminal is installed between the top surface of the housing and the insertion slot at a height that does not interfere with the operation of a customer inserting the credit card. The settlement device according to claim 3.

5. The payment processing unit further A change dispenser having a coin slot into which coins are inserted, a coin outlet from which coins are dispensed as change, a bill slot into which bills are inserted and a bill outlet from which bills are dispensed as change, the coin insertion slot, the coin ejection slot, the bill insertion slot, and the bill ejection slot are arranged side by side facing the customer; The settlement device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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