Sales data processing device and program

Abstract

To provide a sales data processor and a program capable of dynamically and efficiently performing price discount of articles using price discount stickers.SOLUTION: A sales data processor includes: first input receiving means for accepting input of first identification information that can identify an article; second input receiving means for accepting input of second identification information that can identify an affixed item on the article to which price discount is applied; identification means for identifying the price discount corresponding to the current unit of variation of the affixed item of the second identification information received by the second input receiving means or the article to which the affixed item is attached, based on setting information relating each of the second identification information, a plurality of variation units for applying the price discount set based on a predetermined index, and a price discount indicating a discount amount or a discount rate for each of the variation units; and calculation means for calculating the selling price of the article corresponding to the first identification information received by the first input receiving means based on the price discount identified by the identification means.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] An embodiment of the present invention relates to a sales data processing device and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, in stores such as supermarkets and mass retailers, stickers, labels, and other items indicating discount amounts (hereinafter also referred to as discount stickers) are affixed to products that are subject to discounts, such as discounts. For example, in stores, discount stickers are affixed to products that have been manufactured for a predetermined period of time or products that are subject to inventory clearance. Products with discount stickers attached can be purchased at a price reduced by the discount amount corresponding to the discount sticker when paying using a sales data processing device such as a POS terminal. Furthermore, POS terminals capable of reading discount stickers attached to products have been proposed.

[0003] In the conventional discount method using discount stickers, when the discount value changes over time or due to changes in inventory, for example, the discount value is changed by replacing or overlapping the old discount sticker with a new one showing the new discount value. However, this conventional method is cumbersome because it requires the work of replacing the discount stickers, and further improvement is required from the viewpoint of efficiency. 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 sales data processing device and program that can dynamically and efficiently perform price discounts on products using discount stickers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] The sales data processing device of the embodiment includes a first input receiving means, a second input receiving means, a specifying means, and a calculating means. , display control means;The system includes: a first input accepting means for accepting input of first identification information capable of identifying a product; a second input accepting means for accepting input of second identification information capable of identifying a sticker attached to the product for applying a discount; a specifying means for specifying a discount value corresponding to a current variable unit of the sticker of the second identification information accepted by the second input accepting means or the product to which the sticker is attached, based on setting information associating each of the second identification information with a plurality of variable units for applying a discount set based on a predetermined index, and a discount value indicating a discount amount or discount rate for each variable unit; and a calculation means for calculating a selling price of the product corresponding to the first identification information accepted by the first input accepting means, based on the discount value specified by the specifying means. The display control means displays on an external display device a display screen that associates an image representing the sticker corresponding to each of the second identification information with the current discount value for each of the second identification information identified based on the setting information. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0006] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a POS system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of installation of electronic shelf labels according to the embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of the product master according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of a discount table according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of a discount setting table according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the POS terminal according to the embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display unit of the electronic shelf label according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a screen displayed on the display unit of the electronic shelf label according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state of the product buffer according to the embodiment. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a state of the product buffer according to the embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of shelf label control processing executed by the POS terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of sales data processing executed by the POS terminal of the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a product registration process executed by the POS terminal of the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] Hereinafter, an embodiment of a sales data processing device and a program will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiment described below is one embodiment of a sales data processing device and a program, and does not limit the configuration, specifications, etc. The sales data processing device of this embodiment is an example of application to a POS (Point Of Sales) terminal installed in a store such as a supermarket.

[0008] FIG. 1 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the configuration of a POS system 1 according to this embodiment. The POS system 1 includes electronic shelf labels 10, a server device 20, and a POS terminal 30. The electronic shelf labels 10, the server device 20, and the POS terminal 30 are connected to a network N via an access point or the like (not shown). The network N is, for example, a communications network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) installed in a store. Note that the number of electronic shelf labels 10 and POS terminals 30 connected to the POS system 1 is not limited to the example shown in FIG. 1.

[0009] An electronic shelf label 10 is an example of a display device. A plurality of electronic shelf labels 10 are provided in a store. For example, the electronic shelf labels 10 are provided on display shelves for displaying products. FIG. 2 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the installation of the electronic shelf labels 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the electronic shelf labels 10 are provided on shelves on which products G are displayed. Generally, in stores, shelf allocation is performed to group products G of the same genre or the same brand. For example, the electronic shelf labels 10 are placed at each display position in the shelf allocation.

[0010] 2, the electronic shelf label 10 includes a display unit 11 configured as a flat display such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or electronic paper. The electronic shelf label 10 also includes a computer-configured control unit configured as a processor, memory, etc., and a communication interface for connecting to a network N (neither of which are shown).

[0011] The control unit of the electronic shelf label 10 causes various types of information to be displayed on the display unit 11. For example, in response to a display instruction from the server device 20 or the POS terminal 30, the control unit of the electronic shelf label 10 causes the display unit 11 to display information related to the discount sticker L attached to the product G.

[0012] Here, the discount sticker L is an example of a sticker related to the application of a discount, which is attached to a product that is subject to a discount or reduction (hereinafter also referred to as a discount). The discount sticker L is attached to a product that is subject to a discount by a store employee such as a salesperson. There is no particular restriction on the product that is subject to a discount, but in this embodiment, for example, a form will be described in which a product that has been manufactured for a predetermined time or a product that has been displayed on a display shelf for a predetermined time is subject to a discount.

[0013] Different types (designs) of discount stickers L are prepared for each period when the discount stickers L are affixed to the products G. There are no particular restrictions on the design of the discount stickers L, and any shapes, letters, etc. can be used, but it is preferable that the design not include letters, etc. that represent the discount value itself.

[0014] 2 shows an example in which discount stickers La to Lc with different designs are attached to each of products Ga to Gc. Here, each of products Ga to Gd was displayed on the shelf at a different time, with products Ga to Gd being displayed in order of most recent. Also, discount stickers La to Lc were attached to products Ga to Gc in order of oldest displayed time at different times.

[0015] 1, the server device 20 is an information processing device such as a store computer. The server device 20 is communicably connected to the electronic shelf labels 10 and the server device 20, and manages and stores various data related to the POS system 1.

[0016] Specifically, the server device 20 includes a computer-configured control unit that includes a processor and memory, a communication interface for connecting to the network N, and the like (neither of which is shown). The control unit of the server device 20 controls the entire POS system 1 by working together with the electronic shelf labels 10 and the POS terminal 30. For example, the control unit of the server device 20 stores and manages various types of data used in the POS system 1. Furthermore, for example, the control unit of the server device 20 performs control to switch the display screen of the electronic shelf label 10 in response to an instruction from the POS terminal 30.

[0017] The POS terminal 30 is an example of a sales data processing device. The POS terminal 30 is placed, for example, at a checkout location within a store. In response to an operator's operation, the POS terminal 30 performs a product registration process for registering products to be purchased and a transaction process for the registered products.

[0018] 1, the POS terminal 30 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 31, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 32, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 33. The POS terminal 30 also includes a timing device (not shown) such as an RTC (Real Time Clock) that can measure the current date and time.

[0019] The CPU 31 is an example of a processor and controls the overall operation of the POS terminal 30. The ROM 32 stores various programs. The RAM 33 is a workspace for expanding programs and various data. For example, the RAM 33 includes a product buffer 331 for storing information related to registered products.

[0020] The CPU 31, ROM 32, and RAM 33 are connected via a bus or the like to form a computer-configured control unit 300. The control unit 300 executes various processes by the CPU 31 operating in accordance with various programs stored in the ROM 32 and the storage unit 36 ​​and expanded in the RAM 33.

[0021] The control unit 300 is connected to a communication unit 34, an I / O device control unit 35, and a storage unit 36 ​​via a bus or the like. The communication unit 34 is a communication interface that can be connected to a network N. The communication unit 34 communicates with external devices such as the electronic shelf label 10 and the server device 20 via the network N.

[0022] The I / O device control unit 35 connects the POS terminal 30 and an external device 40, and controls the input and output of data (or information) via the external device 40. The external device 40 includes, for example, a display unit 41, an operation unit 42, a scanner unit 43, a drawer 44, and a printer 45.

[0023] The display unit 41 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display. The display unit 41 displays various screens under the control of the POS terminal 30. For example, the display unit 41 displays an operation screen for assisting product registration operations and checkout operations. The display unit 41 may also be equipped with a touch panel.

[0024] The operation unit 42 has operation devices such as various operation keys and a pointing device, and receives operations from the operator. The operation unit 42 also outputs the received operation content to the POS terminal 30. For example, the operation unit 42 has a start key for instructing the start of the registration operation, number input keys for inputting the product code and the number of products, etc., a closing key for instructing the end of product registration, a confirmation key for confirming the amount paid by the customer, etc. The operation unit 42 may be a touch panel provided on the display surface of the display unit 41.

[0025] The scanner unit 43 is a reading device capable of reading barcodes and the like attached to products. The scanner unit 43 is an imaging device equipped with an imaging element (e.g., an electronic camera) such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) image sensor, and reads various information from the captured image.

[0026] For example, the scanner unit 43 reads a product code for identifying the product from a code symbol such as a barcode or two-dimensional code attached to the product, and outputs the read product code to the POS terminal 30. Also, for example, the scanner unit 43 reads a discount sticker L attached to the product, and outputs an image of the read discount sticker L or information that can identify the discount sticker L to the POS terminal 30.

[0027] When only reading code symbols such as barcodes and two-dimensional codes, the scanner unit 43 may be a barcode scanner that reads using a laser method.

[0028] The drawer 44 stores cash received from customers and cash to be used for change, etc. The drawer 44 opens and closes in response to a drive signal output from the POS terminal 30.

[0029] The printer 45 is a printing device such as a thermal printer. Under the control of the POS terminal 30, the printer 45 prints a receipt showing the details of the transaction, for example, at the end of the transaction process.

[0030] In this embodiment, the POS terminal 30 and the external device 40 are separate entities, but the POS terminal 30 and the external device 40 may be integrated, and the integrated device may be defined as a POS terminal (sales data processing device).

[0031] The storage unit 36 ​​is an auxiliary storage device of the POS terminal 30, and includes a storage medium such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or flash memory that can retain stored contents even when the power is turned off. The storage unit 36 ​​stores various programs that can be executed by the CPU 31, various setting information, etc. The storage unit 36 ​​also stores a product master 361, a discount table 362, a discount setting table 363, etc.

[0032] The product master 361 is a master file that stores information about products sold in a store. For example, the product master 361 has the data configuration shown in Fig. 3. Here, Fig. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the product master 361.

[0033] As shown in Fig. 3, the product master 361 stores product information such as the product name and unit price of the product corresponding to the product code in association with the product code. Here, the product code is an example of first identification information that can identify the type of product sold in a store. For example, the product code can be a JAN (Japanese Article Number) code. The product name is the name of the product. The price is the price of the product.

[0034] The discount table 362 is a file that stores information about discount stickers L attached to products. For example, the discount table 362 has the data structure shown in Fig. 4. Here, Fig. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the discount table 362.

[0035] As shown in Fig. 4, the discount table 362 stores information (hereinafter also referred to as discount information) that associates an ID, a sticker image, a type, a start date and time of use, and a current price for each type of discount sticker L used. Here, the ID is an example of second identification information that can identify the type of discount sticker L. The sticker image is image data that represents the design of the discount sticker L, or a feature that quantitatively represents the characteristics and properties of the design.

[0036] The type is information indicating the type of discount applied to the discount sticker L. In this embodiment, two types, "D1" and "P2," can be set. "D1" refers to a type in which the discount amount is directly specified, and "P2" refers to a type in which the discount rate is specified.

[0037] The operation start date and time is set to the date and time when the discount using the discount sticker L starts. For example, the operation start date and time is set to the date and time when the discount sticker L is affixed to the product.

[0038] The current value is set to the current discount value (hereinafter referred to as the discount value) according to the discount sticker L. Here, the discount value is set to a value according to the type. For example, for type "D1", the discount amount is set, and for type "P2", the discount rate is set.

[0039] When a store clerk or other employee uses a discount sticker L, the employee registers information about the discount sticker L in the discount table 362, but the method of registration is not particularly limited. For example, the employee may register information about a new discount sticker L to be used in the discount table 362 via the operation unit 42 of the POS terminal 30.

[0040] The discount setting table 363 is a file that stores settings related to the fluctuation of the discount value described above. For example, the discount setting table 363 has the data structure shown in Fig. 5. Here, Fig. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the data structure of the discount setting table 363.

[0041] As shown in Fig. 5, the discount setting table 363 stores, for each of the above-mentioned types, time and a discount value corresponding to the passage of time in association with each other. Here, the time item is an example of fluctuation setting information that specifies an index related to fluctuations in the discount value and a fluctuation unit, and sets the unit time when the discount value is to be changed over time. For example, the time can be set to "1D (Day)" which means one day, or "1H (Hour)" which means one hour.

[0042] The following items T0 to TE are set with discount values ​​to be applied when the index specified in the fluctuation setting information fluctuates in fluctuation units. For example, in the example of Fig. 5, the index related to fluctuation of discount values ​​is time, so T0 to TE are set with discount values ​​to be applied when the index fluctuates in fluctuation units of "1D" or "1H".

[0043] Specifically, when the unit time set for time is "1D", the discount value set for T0 corresponds to the discount value for the 0th day from the base point (operation start date and time), and the discount value set for T1 corresponds to the discount value one day after the base point. Thereafter, discount values ​​for each day that passes are set for T2 to TE. Also, when the unit time set for time is "1H", the discount value set for T0 corresponds to the discount value for less than one hour that has passed since the base point (operation start date and time), and the discount value set for T1 corresponds to the discount value for more than one hour but less than two hours that have passed since the base point. Thereafter, discount values ​​for each hour that passes are set for T2 to TE.

[0044] In this embodiment, the POS terminal 30 locally stores the files of the product master 361, the discount table 362, and the discount setting table 363. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and some or all of the files may be stored in other devices. For example, the server device 20 may store some or all of the files of the product master 361, the discount table 362, and the discount setting table 363, and the POS terminal 30 may refer to the files stored in the server device 20.

[0045] Next, the functional configuration of the POS terminal 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the POS terminal 30.

[0046] 6, the POS terminal 30 has, as its functional components, a setting update unit 301, a shelf label control unit 302, a first input receiving unit 303, a second input receiving unit 304, a discount value determination unit 305, a product registration unit 306, and an accounting processing unit 307. Specifically, the control unit 300 (CPU 31) of the POS terminal 30 realizes the above-mentioned functional components by executing a program stored in the ROM 32 or the storage unit 36.

[0047] In this embodiment, the above-described functional configuration is a software configuration realized by cooperation between a processor and a program, but part or all of the functional configuration may be realized as a hardware configuration using a dedicated circuit or the like.

[0048] The setting update unit 301 updates the current discount value (present value) of each ID set in the discount table 362 based on the discount setting table 363. Specifically, the setting update unit 301 calculates the elapsed time from the operation start date and time to the current date and time for each ID in the discount table 362 based on the date and time set as the operation start date and time in the discount table 362 and the current date and time.

[0049] Next, the setting update unit 301 identifies the discount value corresponding to the combination from the discount setting table 363 based on the combination of the ID type, fluctuation unit (hours), and elapsed time calculated for that ID. For example, if the type is "D1," the time is "1D," and the elapsed time is 36 hours, the setting update unit 301 determines that one day has passed since the operation start date and time, and identifies the discount value "20" set for T1. Also, for example, if the type is "P2," the time is "1H," and the elapsed time is 6 hours and 30 minutes, the setting update unit 301 determines that six hours have passed since the operation start date and time, and identifies the discount value "20" set for T5.

[0050] Then, the setting update unit 301 updates the discount value by setting the discount value identified from the discount setting table 363 to the current value associated with the corresponding ID in the discount setting table 362. Here, the setting update unit 301 may update the discount value with the identified discount value when the discount value identified from the discount setting table 363 differs from the existing current value (discount value) stored in the discount setting table 363.

[0051] It should be noted that the timing at which the setting update unit 301 updates the current value is not particularly important. For example, the setting update unit 301 may execute processing related to updating the current value every time a predetermined time interval (e.g., 30 minutes) has elapsed. Furthermore, for example, the setting update unit 301 may execute processing related to updating individually for each ID every time a predetermined time interval has elapsed since the operation start date and time of the discount table 362, based on the operation start date and time of the discount table 362.

[0052] The shelf label control unit 302 is an example of a display control means. The shelf label control unit 302 controls the screen displayed on the electronic shelf label 10. For example, the shelf label control unit 302 causes the electronic shelf label 10 to display the current discount value of the discount sticker L attached to the product. Specifically, the shelf label control unit 302 transmits instruction information to the electronic shelf label 10 to instruct it to update the display content based on the current value of the discount sticker L set in the discount table 362.

[0053] Here, the shelf label control unit 302 may transmit instruction information that associates a sticker image with a discount value that is set for the current value of the sticker image to the electronic shelf label 10. Furthermore, if a sticker image is stored in the electronic shelf label 10 in association with an ID, the shelf label control unit 302 may transmit instruction information that associates the ID with a discount value that is set for the current value of the ID to the electronic shelf label 10.

[0054] The shelf label control unit 302 may be configured to transmit information directly to each of the electronic shelf labels 10, or may be configured to transmit information directly to each of the electronic shelf labels 10 via the server device 20. In the latter case, the server device 20 updates the display of the electronic shelf label 10 based on the instruction information from the shelf label control unit 302.

[0055] Furthermore, the shelf label control unit 302 may transmit (distribute) the same instruction information to all of the electronic shelf labels 10, or may transmit instruction information individually to each electronic shelf label 10. In the latter case, for example, shelf label setting information is prepared in advance that associates an ID corresponding to the type of discount sticker L attached to a product with an identifier (hereinafter also referred to as a shelf label ID) of the electronic shelf label 10 placed on the display shelf for that product. Then, based on the shelf label setting information, the shelf label control unit 302 may transmit instruction information that indicates the current value related to the ID associated with that shelf label ID to the electronic shelf label 10 of that shelf label ID.

[0056] 7 and 8 are diagrams schematically showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit 11 of the electronic shelf label 10. The control unit of the electronic shelf label 10 updates the screen displayed on the display unit 11 in response to an instruction from the POS terminal 30 (or the server device 20).

[0057] For example, suppose that the shelf label control unit 302 transmits instruction information to discount the price discount sticker La by 30 yen, the price discount sticker Lb by 20 yen, and the price discount sticker Lc by 10 yen for each of the price discount stickers La to Lc shown in Fig. 2. In this case, the control unit of the electronic shelf label 10 causes the display unit 11 to display the screen shown in Fig. 7 based on the received instruction information.

[0058] As shown in Fig. 7, the display unit 11 displays the discount value associated with the discount sticker L of the sticker image in association with the sticker image showing the design of the discount stickers La to Lc. Here, the discount value displayed on the display unit 11 indicates the current discount value applied by the discount sticker L. This allows customers using the store to consider purchasing the product to which the discount sticker L is attached, based on the discount value of the discount sticker L displayed on the display unit 11.

[0059] 7, the setting update unit 301 updates the current values ​​(discount values) in the discount table 362 related to the IDs of the discount stickers La to Lc. In this case, the shelf label control unit 302 transmits instruction information based on the updated discount values ​​in accordance with the update of the discount table 362. The control unit of the electronic shelf label 10 causes the display unit 11 to display, for example, a screen shown in FIG. 8 based on the received instruction information.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 8, the display unit 11 displays the current discount amount applied by each of the discount stickers La to Lc. Fig. 8 shows an example in which the discount sticker La has been updated to 40 yen off, the discount sticker Lb to 30 yen off, and the discount sticker Lc to 20 yen off. In other words, the discount amount applied by each of the discount stickers La to Lc changes over time.

[0061] In this way, in the POS system 1 of this embodiment, by using the discount sticker L attached to the product, the discount value associated with the discount sticker L can be dynamically changed over time. Therefore, the POS system 1 can eliminate the work of replacing the discount sticker L, and can dynamically and efficiently discount the product using the discount sticker L.

[0062] Furthermore, according to the POS system 1 of this embodiment, a store clerk or other employee can sell a product at a discount price according to the passage of time by attaching a discount sticker L to the product that has been manufactured or displayed on a display shelf for a long time. As a result, for example, a store can efficiently promote sales of the target product by setting a larger discount price as the passage of time increases.

[0063] The first input accepting unit 303 is an example of a first input accepting means. The first input accepting unit 303 accepts input of first identification information (product code) that can identify a product. For example, the first input accepting unit 303 accepts input of a product code by acquiring a product code read via the scanner unit 43. Furthermore, for example, the first input accepting unit 303 accepts input of a product code by acquiring a product code that is manually input via the operation unit 42.

[0064] The second input accepting unit 304 is an example of a second input accepting means. The second input accepting unit 304 accepts input of second identification information (ID) that can identify the discount sticker L attached to the product. For example, the second input accepting unit 304 accepts input of the ID that can identify the discount sticker L by acquiring the ID of the sticker image corresponding to the image from the discount table 362 based on the image of the discount sticker L read via the scanner unit 43. Also, for example, the second input accepting unit 304 accepts input of the ID that can identify the discount sticker L by acquiring an ID manually input via the operation unit 42.

[0065] The discount value determination unit 305 is an example of a determination means. When the second input receiving unit 304 receives the ID of a discount sticker L, the discount value determination unit 305 determines the current discount value corresponding to the ID. Specifically, the discount value determination unit 305 refers to the discount table 362 and calculates the elapsed time from the operation start date and time to the current date and time based on the date and time set as the operation start date and time of the ID received by the second input receiving unit 304 and the current date and time.

[0066] Next, the discount value determination unit 305 determines the discount value corresponding to the combination of the type of ID, the fluctuation unit (time), and the elapsed time calculated for the ID, which are received by the second input receiving unit 304, from the discount setting table 363. Here, the method of determining the discount value performed by the discount value determination unit 305 is the same as the method of determination performed by the setting update unit 301 described above.

[0067] In the present embodiment, the discount value determination unit 305 determines the discount value corresponding to the ID accepted by the second input acceptance unit 304 using the discount setting table 363. However, the discount value determination unit 305 may also determine the discount value using the current value in the discount table 362. In this case, the discount value determination unit 305 reads the current value corresponding to the ID accepted by the second input acceptance unit 304 from the discount table 362, and determines the discount value set for the current value. The setting update unit 301 and the discount value determination unit 305 may be realized with the same functional configuration.

[0068] The product registration unit 306 is an example of a calculation means. The product registration unit 306 executes a registration process for a product whose input is accepted by the first input accepting unit 303. Specifically, the product registration unit 306 acquires product information corresponding to the product code accepted by the first input accepting unit 303 from the product master 361. Next, the product registration unit 306 associates the product code with the product information, etc., and stores (registers) them in the product buffer 331.

[0069] Furthermore, when the first input accepting unit 303 accepts a product code and the second input accepting unit 304 accepts the ID of a discount sticker L, the product registration unit 306 registers a discount amount according to the discount value of the discount sticker L. Specifically, the product registration unit 306 subtracts the discount amount according to the discount value identified by the discount value identifying unit 305 from the unit price of the product, and registers the result of the subtraction in the product buffer 331 as the selling price of the product.

[0070] For example, if the discount value type identified by the discount value identification unit 305 is "D1," the product registration unit 306 sets the value indicated by the discount value as the discount amount. Also, if the discount value type identified by the discount value identification unit 305 is "P2," the product registration unit 306 sets the discount amount as the value obtained by dividing the value indicated by the discount value by 100 and multiplying the result by the unit price of the product. Then, the product registration unit 306 registers the value obtained by subtracting the discount amount from the unit price of the product in the product buffer 331 as the selling price of the product.

[0071] Although the timing of inputting the product code and the ID of the discount sticker L is not particularly important, it is preferable to configure the system so that the product code and the ID of the discount sticker L attached to the same product are treated as a set of data. For example, the product registration unit 306 may treat IDs input within a predetermined time after the input of the product code as a set of data relating to the same product. Furthermore, even if the ID is input first, the product registration unit 306 may treat product codes input within a predetermined time after the input of the ID as a set of data relating to the same product.

[0072] 9 and 10, the product registration process performed by the product registration unit 306 will be described.

[0073] First, assume that the first input receiving unit 303 receives the product code "ZZZZZ." In this case, the product registration unit 306 reads out product information for the product corresponding to this product code "ZZZZZ" from the product master 361. Then, the product registration unit 306 registers the product code "ZZZZZ" and the product information, as well as the product quantity, discount amount, price, etc., in the product buffer 331, as shown in FIG.

[0074] Here, the number of points means the number of registered items with the same product code. In this state, one item with product code "ZZZZZ" has been registered, so the number of points is "1." The amount means the total amount of items with the same product code. Furthermore, since the discount sticker L has not been read at the time of registration, the discount amount "0" is registered. The "No." in the product buffer 331 indicates the order in which the items were registered.

[0075] Next, suppose that the first input accepting unit 303 accepts the product code "ZZZZZ," and the second input accepting unit 304 accepts the ID of the discount sticker L. In this case, the product registration unit 306 reads the product information of the product corresponding to the product code "ZZZZZ" from the product master 361, as before. The product registration unit 306 also calculates the product price by subtracting the discount amount corresponding to the discount value identified by the discount value identifying unit 305 from the unit price of the product. Then, as shown in FIG. 10, the product registration unit 306 registers the product code "ZZZZZ" and the product information, as well as the quantity, discount amount, price, etc. of the product corresponding to the product code, in the product buffer 331.

[0076] In the state shown in Figure 10, two items with product code "ZZZZZ" have been registered, so the number of items is updated to "2." Also, the discount amount applied at the second registration, "20 yen," is added to the first discount amount of "0" and registered. Then, in the amount field, the amount "580 yen" is registered, which is the sum of the price of the item registered the first time, "300 yen," and the discounted price of the item registered the second time, "280 yen."

[0077] Next, when the first input receiving unit 303 receives the product code "YYYYY" and the second input receiving unit 304 receives the ID of the discount sticker L, the product registration unit 306 performs a registration process for the product, and information shown in "No. 2" in Figure 10, for example, is registered in the product buffer 331.

[0078] In this way, each time a product code is input, the product registration unit 306 registers accounting information for the product corresponding to that product code in the product buffer 331. Note that in this embodiment, products associated with the same product code are registered together, but this is not limiting, and each product code may be registered individually.

[0079] Returning to Figure 6, the accounting processor 307 executes accounting for the products registered in the product registration unit 306. Specifically, when the closing key is operated, the accounting processor 307 calculates the total price of the products for one transaction based on the information registered in the product buffer 331 up until the operation was accepted.

[0080] For example, if the closing key is pressed in the product buffer 331 state shown in Figure 10, the transaction processor 307 will add up the amounts for "No. 1" and "No. 2" to calculate a total of "720 yen." The transaction processor 307 then opens the drawer 44 and executes transaction processing to settle the total price of the products with the amount to be paid by the customer (payment amount).

[0081] In this transaction, the transaction processing unit 307 calculates the change amount by subtracting the total amount from the payment amount. The transaction processing unit 307 also controls the printer 45 to print a receipt showing the details of the transaction, such as the registered products, discount amount, and transaction details, and then ends the transaction.

[0082] An example of the processing performed by the POS terminal 30 will now be described.

[0083] First, a process related to display control of the electronic shelf label 10 performed by the POS terminal 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 11. Fig. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of shelf label control process executed by the POS terminal 30.

[0084] First, the setting update unit 301 waits until a predetermined time set for updating the current value has elapsed (step S11; No). When the predetermined time has elapsed (step S11; Yes), the setting update unit 301 selects one of the IDs registered in the discount setting table 363 as the processing target (step S12). Next, the setting update unit 301 calculates the elapsed time from the operation start date and time set in association with the processing target ID to the current date and time (step S13).

[0085] Next, the setting update unit 301 identifies the discount value corresponding to the combination of the type set in association with the ID to be processed and the elapsed time calculated in step S13, based on the discount table 362 (step S14).

[0086] Next, the setting update unit 301 compares the current discount value (present value) set in association with the ID to be processed with the discount value identified in step S14, and determines whether they differ (step S15). If it is determined that they differ (step S15; Yes), the setting update unit 301 updates the present value by setting the discount value identified in step S14 to the present value (step S16), and proceeds to step S17. If it is determined that they match (step S15; No), the setting update unit 301 immediately proceeds to step S17.

[0087] Next, the setting update unit 301 determines whether all IDs have been processed (step S17). If there are unprocessed IDs (step S17; No), the setting update unit 301 returns the process to step S12 and selects the next ID as the processing target. On the other hand, if all IDs have been processed (step S17; Yes), the setting update unit 301 proceeds to step S18.

[0088] Next, the shelf label control unit 302 transmits instruction information to the electronic shelf label 10 to update the display content based on the updated discount table 362 (step S18), and ends this process.

[0089] Next, the sales data processing of the product performed by the POS terminal 30 will be described with reference to Fig. 12 and Fig. 13. Fig. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of the sales data processing executed by the POS terminal 30.

[0090] As shown in Fig. 12, the product registration unit 306 of the POS terminal 30 executes a product registration process in response to a predetermined operation to instruct the start of a transaction (step S21). Fig. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of the product registration process.

[0091] First, the product registration unit 306, in cooperation with the first input receiving unit 303, determines whether a product code has been input (step S211). If a product code has not been input (step S211; No), the product registration unit 306 proceeds to step S213. If a product code has been input (step S211; Yes), the product registration unit 306 reads product information of the product corresponding to the product code from the product master 361, registers the product in the product buffer 331 (step S212), and proceeds to step S213.

[0092] Next, the product registration unit 306, in cooperation with the second input receiving unit 304, determines whether the ID of the discount sticker L has been input (step S213). If the ID of the discount sticker L has not been input (step S213; No), the product registration unit 306 proceeds to step S215. If the ID of the discount sticker L has been input (step S213; Yes), the product registration unit 306 executes discount processing to register the amount obtained by subtracting the discount amount from the unit price of the product in the product buffer 331 based on the current discount value (current value) set in the discount table 362 (step S214), and proceeds to step S215.

[0093] Next, the product registration unit 306 determines whether or not a closing key has been entered (step S215). If a closing key has not been entered (step S215; No), the product registration unit 306 returns the process to step S211. If a closing key has been entered (step S215; Yes), the product registration unit 306 ends the product registration process and proceeds to step S22 in FIG. 12.

[0094] Returning to FIG. 12, the transaction processor 307 executes transaction processing based on the information about each product registered in the product buffer 331 in the product registration processing in step S21 (step S22), and then ends this processing.

[0095] As described above, the POS terminal 30 of this embodiment includes a first input accepting unit 303 that accepts input of a product code that can identify a product, and a second input accepting unit 304 that accepts input of an ID that can identify a discount sticker L attached to a product. The POS terminal 30 also identifies a discount value corresponding to the current fluctuation unit of the discount sticker L of the ID accepted by the second input accepting unit 304 or the product to which the discount sticker L is attached, based on a discount table 362 and a discount setting table 363 that associate each ID with multiple fluctuation units related to the application of discounts set based on a predetermined index, and a discount value indicating the discount amount or discount rate for each fluctuation unit. More specifically, the POS terminal 30 identifies a discount value corresponding to the current index value based on the index that is the fluctuation unit and the discount value set for each index value or range. The POS terminal 30 then calculates the sales price of the product corresponding to the product code accepted by the first input accepting unit 303 based on the identified discount value, and executes product registration and transaction processing.

[0096] As a result, the POS terminal 30 can use the discount sticker L attached to the product to dynamically change the discount value associated with the discount sticker L in accordance with a unit of change such as the passage of time. Therefore, the POS system 1 can eliminate the need for the work of replacing the discount sticker L, and can dynamically and efficiently discount the product using the discount sticker L.

[0097] The above-described embodiment can be modified as needed by partially changing the configuration or functions of each of the above-described devices. Therefore, several modifications of the above-described embodiment will be described below as other embodiments. Differences from the above-described embodiment will be mainly described below. Specifically, the same reference numerals will be used to designate commonalities with the contents already described, and detailed description will be omitted. The modifications described below may be implemented individually or in appropriate combination.

[0098] (Variation 1) In the above embodiment, the discount value on the discount sticker L is changed depending on the time elapsed since the start of operation, but this is not limiting, and the discount value may be changed depending on an index other than the elapsed time. For example, the discount value may be changed depending on the number of products in stock.

[0099] In this case, for example, the server device 20 manages the inventory quantity of the product corresponding to the product code in association with the product code of each product. Specifically, the server device 20 sequentially updates the inventory quantity by subtracting the number of purchased products from the inventory quantity for each pre-registered product code based on the product code of the product purchased at each POS terminal 30.

[0100] Also, for example, the discount table 362 stores the number of products in stock at the time of starting the discount using the discount sticker L (hereinafter also referred to as the start-of-operation stock number) instead of the item of the start-of-operation date and time. Also, the start-of-operation stock number may not be used.

[0101] Furthermore, the discount setting table 363 stores an item related to the fluctuation unit of the stock quantity instead of the item for time. For example, the discount setting table 363 may have an item in which the stock quantity value can be set as is as the fluctuation unit for type "D1". Furthermore, for example, the discount setting table 363 may have an item in which the ratio of the current stock quantity to the start-of-operation stock can be set as the fluctuation unit for type "P2". Then, in the items T0 to TE, discount values ​​are set for each range according to the fluctuation unit for each type.

[0102] On the other hand, the setting update unit 301 and the discount value determination unit 305 determine the current discount value of the product from the inventory quantity of the product to which the discount sticker L is attached, based on the inventory quantity managed by the server device 20, the discount table 362, and the discount setting table 363. Specifically, the setting update unit 301 and the discount value determination unit 305 determine the current discount value from the discount setting table 363 based on the inventory quantity of the product to which the discount sticker L is attached, the inventory quantity at the start of operation, the type related to the ID of the discount sticker L, the fluctuation unit, etc.

[0103] For example, when the type is "D1" and the fluctuation unit indicates the stock quantity itself, the setting update unit 301 and the discount value determination unit 305 determine the discount value set in a range that includes the current stock quantity. Also, when the type is "P2" and the fluctuation unit indicates the ratio of the current stock quantity to the start-of-operation stock, the setting update unit 301 and the discount value determination unit 305 determine the discount value set in a range that includes the ratio based on the ratio calculated from the start-of-operation stock quantity and the current stock quantity.

[0104] According to the POS terminal 30 of this modification, similarly to the above-described embodiment, the discount value on the discount sticker L attached to the product can be dynamically changed according to the unit of change such as the number of products in stock. Therefore, similarly to the above-described embodiment, the POS system 1 of this modification can eliminate the work of replacing the discount sticker L, and can dynamically and efficiently discount products using the discount sticker L.

[0105] Furthermore, according to the configuration of this modified example, a store clerk or other employee can sell the product at a discount price according to the number of items in stock by attaching a discount sticker L to the product they want to reduce in stock. This allows a store, for example, to efficiently promote sales of the target product by setting a larger discount price as the number of items in stock decreases.

[0106] (Variation 2) In the above embodiment, the POS terminal 30 controls the display of the electronic shelf label 10. However, the display of the electronic shelf label 10 may be controlled by a device other than the POS terminal 30.

[0107] As an example, the control unit of the server device 20 may be configured to control the display of the electronic shelf label 10. In this case, the server device 20 can achieve the same effects as the above embodiment by storing a discount table 362 and a discount setting table 363 and having the functional configuration of a setting update unit 301 and a shelf label control unit 302. The discount value identification unit 305 of the POS terminal 30 refers to the discount table 362 and the discount setting table 363 stored in the server device 20 to identify the discount value corresponding to the ID of the discount label L entered into its own POS terminal 30.

[0108] As another example, the control unit of the electronic shelf label 10 may be configured to control the display of its own electronic shelf label 10. In this case, for example, the server device 20 stores a discount table 362 and a discount setting table 363, and has the functional configuration of a setting update unit 301. Furthermore, each electronic shelf label 10 has the functional configuration of a shelf label control unit 302, and the shelf label control unit 302 controls the screen displayed on its own display unit 11 while referring to the discount table 362 and the discount setting table 363 stored in the server device 20. This makes it possible to achieve the same effects as those of the above embodiment.

[0109] (Variation 3) In the above-described embodiment, the second input receiving unit 304 of the POS terminal 30 is configured to acquire the ID of the discount sticker L via the operation unit 42 or the scanner unit 43, but the method of inputting the ID is not limited to this.

[0110] For example, if a wireless tag such as an RFID tag is attached to the discount sticker L and the ID of the discount sticker L is stored in the wireless tag, the second input receiving unit 304 of the POS terminal 30 may acquire the ID via a reading device such as an RFID reader / writer. In this case, the reading device can be used in the POS terminal 30 by connecting it to the I / O device control unit 35 as the external device 40.

[0111] (Variation 4) In the above-described embodiment, the display screen of the electronic shelf label 10 is used to display the current discount value, etc. of the discount sticker L, but the device to be displayed is not limited to the electronic shelf label 10. For example, the POS terminal 30 may transmit instruction information to a display device such as a signage terminal installed in the store, thereby causing the display device to display the current discount value, etc. of the discount sticker L.

[0112] Furthermore, the POS terminal 30 may display the current discount value of the discount sticker L on a display device such as the display unit 41 connected to the POS terminal 30 itself.

[0113] The programs executed by each device in the above-described embodiments are provided in a state where they are pre-installed in a ROM, a storage unit, etc. The programs executed by each device in the above-described embodiments may be provided by being recorded in an installable or executable file format on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM, a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R, or a digital versatile disk (DVD).

[0114] Furthermore, the programs executed by each device in the above-described embodiments may be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Also, the programs executed by each device in the above-described embodiments may be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet.

[0115] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments and their modifications can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, changes, and combinations 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]

[0116] 1. POS system 10 Electronic shelf label 20 Server device 30 POS terminals 301 Setting update section 302 Shelf label control unit 303 First input reception unit 304 Second input reception unit 305 Value discount value identification part 306 Product Registration Department 307 Accounting Department 361 Product Master 362 Value Discount Table 363 Value Discount Setting Table N Network [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0117] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2012-074013

Claims

1. a first input receiving means for receiving input of first identification information capable of identifying a product; a second input receiving means for receiving input of second identification information capable of identifying a label relating to the application of a discount attached to the product; a specifying means for specifying a discount value corresponding to the current fluctuation unit of the sticker of the second identification information received by the second input receiving means or the product to which the sticker is attached, based on setting information that associates each of the second identification information, a plurality of fluctuation units related to the application of a discount set based on a predetermined index, and a discount value indicating the discount amount or discount rate for each fluctuation unit; a calculation means for calculating a selling price of the commodity corresponding to the first identification information received by the first input receiving means, based on the discount value identified by the identification means; a display control means for displaying on an external display device a display screen in which an image representing the sticker corresponding to each of the second identification information items is associated with a current discount value for each of the second identification information items specified based on the setting information; A sales data processing device comprising:

2. the specifying means calculates the elapsed time from the operation start date and time of the second identification information received by the second input receiving means to the current date and time based on the setting information that associates each of the second identification information with the operation start date and time of the sticker corresponding to each of the second identification information and a discount value that varies depending on the elapsed time from the operation start date and time, and specifies the discount value that corresponds to the calculated elapsed time. The sales data processing device according to claim 1 .

3. the specifying means specifies the discount value corresponding to the current stock quantity of the product to which the sticker corresponding to each of the second identification information is attached, based on the setting information associating each of the second identification information with the stock quantity of the product to which the sticker corresponding to each of the second identification information is attached, and the discount value that varies depending on the stock quantity; The sales data processing device according to claim 1 .

4. The sales data processing device according to claim 1 , wherein the second input receiving means receives input of the second identification information from an imaging device that reads the label from an image of the product, or from an operation device that receives an operation from an operator.

5. The computer of the sales data processing device, a first input receiving means for receiving input of first identification information capable of identifying a product; a second input receiving means for receiving input of second identification information capable of identifying a label relating to the application of a discount attached to the product; a specifying means for specifying a discount value corresponding to the current fluctuation unit of the sticker of the second identification information received by the second input receiving means or the product to which the sticker is attached, based on setting information that associates each of the second identification information, a plurality of fluctuation units related to the application of a discount set based on a predetermined index, and a discount value indicating the discount amount or discount rate for each fluctuation unit; a calculation means for calculating a selling price of the commodity corresponding to the first identification information received by the first input receiving means, based on the discount value identified by the identification means; a display control means for displaying on an external display device a display screen in which an image representing the sticker corresponding to each of the second identification information items is associated with a current discount value for each of the second identification information items specified based on the setting information; A program to make it function as such.

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