Accounting device, data processing system and program

Abstract

To reduce the burden on a user operating a registration device.SOLUTION: An accounting device includes a sensor, a communication processing unit, and an accounting processing unit. The communication processing unit acquires data related to one transaction based on product registration at a registration device from the registration device or an electronic apparatus different from the registration device, based on detection of a user of the registration device by the sensor. The accounting processing unit processes accounting of the one transaction based on the data related to the one transaction.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD Embodiments of the present invention relate to an accounting device, a data processing system, and a program. [Background technology]

[0002] In the retail industry, checkout methods that separate product registration and payment operations into different devices are widespread. Known checkout methods include semi-self-service methods, methods that use a mobile registration terminal with a product registration function attached to a shopping cart, and methods that register products using a mobile terminal owned by the consumer or a mobile terminal provided by the store. In these checkout methods, product registration operations are performed by a store clerk or customer, and payment operations are performed by the customer.

[0003] In the semi-self service, the product registration operation is performed by a store clerk, who, after completing the product registration operation on the registration device, performs an operation to specify the checkout device at which the customer will make the transaction. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-096074 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, store clerks must visually check the status of multiple payment terminals and then select the payment terminal for the customer to use, which places a heavy burden on store clerks.

[0006] The problem to be solved by the embodiments of the present invention is to provide a technique that enables a reduction in the burden on a user who operates a registration device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In one embodiment, the accounting device includes a sensor, a communications processor, and an accounting processor. The communications processor acquires data related to a transaction based on product registration in the registration device from the registration device or an electronic device other than the registration device based on detection of a user of the registration device by the sensor. The accounting processor processes the transaction based on the data related to the transaction. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a data processing system according to an embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the layout of a store to which the data processing system according to the embodiment is applied. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a server according to the embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of device relationship data stored in the server according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a registration device according to the embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a transaction device according to an embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a first operation example of the data processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure by the processor of the registration device in the first operation example according to the embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure by the processor of the server in the first operation example according to the embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the processing steps involved in acquiring transaction data by the processor of the transaction device in the first operation example according to the embodiment. [Figure 11]FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the control of sensors by the processor of the transaction device in the first operation example according to the embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the processing steps related to the control of the sensor by the processor of the transaction device in the first operation example according to the embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a second operation example of the data processing system according to the embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure by the processor of the registration device in the second operation example according to the embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0009] [Embodiment] Hereinafter, the embodiments will be described with reference to the drawings. In the drawings, the same components are denoted by the same reference numerals whenever possible, and duplicated explanations will be omitted.

[0010] (Configuration example) FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a data processing system S according to an embodiment. The data processing system S is a system for processing data in a store. The data processing system S realizes a semi-self-service checkout method in which product registration operations and accounting operations are separated into different devices.

[0011] The data processing system S comprises a server 1, multiple registration devices 2, multiple accounting devices 3, and multiple sensors 4. The server 1, multiple registration devices 2, and multiple accounting devices 3 are connected to each other via a network NW so that they can communicate freely with each other. For example, the network NW is a LAN (Local Area Network), etc. The network NW may include a wireless network or a wired network.

[0012] Although a server 1 is illustrated in FIG. 1, the data processing system S may not include a server 1. Although multiple registration devices 2 are illustrated in FIG. 1, the data processing system S may include only one registration device 2. The data processing system S is not limited to including all of the electronic devices described above. The data processing system S may also refer to a system including at least one electronic device.

[0013] The server 1 is an electronic device capable of processing data. The server 1 is an example of an electronic device different from the registration device 2. The server 1 is an example of an information processing device. An example of the configuration of the server 1 will be described later.

[0014] The registration device 2 is an electronic device capable of registering products for each transaction. A transaction is a set of commercial transactions for completing the delivery of products between a customer and a store. The process of registering products by the registration device 2 is also referred to as product registration. Products registered by the registration device 2 are also referred to as registered products. Products not registered by the registration device 2 are also referred to as unregistered products. The registration device 2 generates first transaction data based on the product registration for a transaction. The first transaction data is an example of transaction data for a transaction. The first transaction data may be data that can be used to process a transaction in the transaction device 3, and the content of the first transaction data is not limited. The first transaction data is transaction data that includes product data for each registered product in a transaction and data on the billing amount for the transaction. The product data may include various data related to the products, such as product names and prices. The first transaction data may also include a transaction number that identifies the transaction. The first transaction data is an example of data related to a transaction. An example configuration of the registration device 2 will be described later.

[0015] The accounting device 3 is an electronic device capable of processing a single transaction based on product registration in the registration device 2. A single transaction based on product registration in the registration device 2 is a single transaction in which products are registered in the registration device 2. A transaction includes payment of the price for a single transaction. A transaction also includes the meaning of settlement. One accounting device 3 is connected to one sensor 4. An example configuration of the accounting device 3 will be described later.

[0016] The sensor 4 is a device that detects a person present within the recognition range of the sensor 4. The sensor 4 may be a contact sensor or a non-contact sensor. For example, the sensor 4 may be a camera, a human presence sensor, or a TOF (Time of Flight) sensor, but is not limited to these. It is preferable that the recognition ranges of the sensors 4 do not overlap with each other. The sensor 4 does not have to be separate from the checkout device 3. One checkout device 3 may have one sensor 4.

[0017] The layout of a store to which the data processing system S is applied will be described. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the layout of a store to which the data processing system S is applied.

[0018] The registration device 2-1 is installed on a stand 5. The registration device 2-1 is one of multiple registration devices 2. The registration device 2-1 is a device operated by a store clerk UA. The store clerk UA uses the registration device 2-1 to register a product for one transaction of customer UB. The store clerk UA is an example of a user of the registration device 2-1.

[0019] The machine 5 includes an area 51 in which unregistered products 91 for one transaction are placed. Although one unregistered product 91 is shown in FIG. 2, multiple unregistered products 91 may be placed in the area 51. The area 51 is also an area in which a basket 6 is placed. The basket 6 is a basket for placing unregistered products 91 for one transaction. Although one basket 6 is shown in FIG. 2, multiple baskets 6 may be placed in the area 51. The machine 5 includes an area 52 in which registered products 92 for one transaction are placed. Although one registered product 92 is shown in FIG. 2, multiple registered products 92 may be placed in the area 52. The area 52 is also an area in which a basket 7 is placed. The basket 7 is a basket for placing registered products 92 for one transaction. Note that the area 52 may be an area on the clerk UA side of the registration device 2-1 (in front of the clerk UA). Although one basket 7 is shown in FIG. 2, multiple baskets 7 may be used for one transaction.

[0020] Accounting device 3-1 and accounting device 3-2 are two accounting devices 3 out of multiple accounting devices 3 that can process the accounting of one transaction based on product registration in registration device 2-1. Accounting device 3-1 and accounting device 3-2 are examples of multiple accounting devices 3 that can process the accounting of one transaction based on product registration in registration device 2-1. The multiple accounting devices 3 that can process the accounting of one transaction based on product registration in registration device 2-1 may be three or more accounting devices 3. Note that the number of accounting devices 3 that can process the accounting of one transaction based on product registration in registration device 2-1 does not necessarily have to be multiple, and may be one.

[0021] Counter 8-1 is a counter on which customer UB places some or all of the registered products 92 for one transaction of customer UB in order to pay for the transaction at accounting device 3-1. Counter 8-1 is also a counter on which customer UB places a basket 7 containing some or all of the registered products 92 for one transaction of customer UB. Counter 8-2 is a counter on which customer UB places some or all of the registered products 92 for one transaction of customer UB in order to pay for the transaction at accounting device 3-2. Counter 8-2 is also a counter on which customer UB places a basket 7 containing some or all of the registered products 92 for one transaction of customer UB.

[0022] Sensor 4-1 is connected to accounting device 3-1. Sensor 4-1 may be installed on the back of accounting device 3-1 so that store clerk UA can be detected by sensor 4-1 with a simple movement of the hand, etc. Sensor 4-2 is connected to accounting device 3-2. Sensor 4-2 may be installed on the back of accounting device 3-2 so that store clerk UA can be detected by sensor 4-2 with a simple movement of the hand, etc. It is preferable that the recognition ranges of sensor 4-1 and sensor 4-2 do not overlap with each other. Note that three or more accounting devices 3 capable of processing a single transaction based on product registration in one registration device 2-1 may be installed.

[0023] When clerk UA wants customer UB to use accounting device 3-1 to process a transaction based on product registration in registration device 2-1, clerk UA makes a movement that causes sensor 4-1 to detect clerk UA. For example, clerk UA enters the recognition range of sensor 4-1 by moving his / her hand close to sensor 4-1. When clerk UA wants customer UB to use accounting device 3-2 to process a transaction based on product registration in registration device 2-1, clerk UA makes a movement that causes sensor 4-2 to detect clerk UA. For example, clerk UA enters the recognition range of sensor 4-2 by moving his / her hand close to sensor 4-2.

[0024] 2, in the data processing system S, one registration device 2, multiple accounting devices 3, and multiple sensors 4 that are associated with each other form a group. The data processing system S includes a number of groups corresponding to the number of registration devices 2.

[0025] An example of the configuration of the server 1 will be described. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the server 1. As shown in FIG. The server 1 is an electronic device that includes a processor 10, a main memory 11, an auxiliary storage device 12, and a communication interface 13. The components that make up the server 1 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In FIG. 3, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0026] The processor 10 corresponds to the central part of the server 1. The processor 10 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. For example, the processor 10 is a CPU (Central Processing Unit), but is not limited to this. The processor 10 may be composed of various circuits. The processor 10 is an example of a processing circuit of the server 1. The processor 10 loads a program that is pre-stored in the main memory 11 or the auxiliary storage device 12 into the main memory 11. The program is a program that can cause the processor 10 to execute the processing of each part realized by the processor 10, which will be described later. The processor 10 performs various processes by executing the program loaded into the main memory 11.

[0027] The main memory 11 corresponds to the main storage portion of the server 1. The main memory 11 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. The main memory 11 includes a non-volatile memory area and a volatile memory area. The main memory 11 stores an operating system or a program in the non-volatile memory area. The main memory 11 uses the volatile memory area as a work area where data is rewritten by the processor 10 as appropriate. For example, the main memory 11 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory area. For example, the main memory 11 includes a RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory area. The main memory 11 is an example of a storage unit of the server 1.

[0028] The auxiliary storage device 12 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the server 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 is an element that constitutes the computer of the server 1. The auxiliary storage device 12 is an EEPROM (registered trademark) (Electric Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory), an HDD (Hard Disc Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive), or the like. The auxiliary storage device 12 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processor 10 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processes in the processor 10. The auxiliary storage device 12 is an example of a storage portion of the server 1.

[0029] The auxiliary storage device 12 may include a transaction data storage area 121. The transaction data storage area 121 can store second transaction data for each registration device 2. The second transaction data is an example of transaction data for a single transaction. The second transaction data may be data that can be used to process a single transaction on the transaction device 3; there are no limitations on the content of the second transaction data. The second transaction data is data based on product registration on the registration device 2. Therefore, the second transaction data is data based on the first transaction data that the server 1 acquires from the registration device 2. The term "acquire" includes the meaning of "receive." The second transaction data is associated with information that indicates the registration device 2 that generated the first transaction data. The second transaction data is an example of data related to a single transaction.

[0030] In one example, the second accounting data is the same data as the first accounting data generated by the registration device 2. In this example, the first accounting data and the second accounting data may be transaction data.

[0031] In another example, the second transaction data is data generated based on the first transaction data. In this example, the first transaction data is transaction data, and the second transaction data may be code data that uniquely identifies a transaction. The code data that uniquely identifies a transaction is data associated with the transaction data. The server 1 generates the code data that uniquely identifies a transaction based on the transaction data obtained from the registration device 2.

[0032] The auxiliary storage device 12 may include a device relationship storage area 122. The device relationship storage area 122 may store device relationship data. The device relationship data is data that associates, for each registration device 2, one registration device 2 with multiple accounting devices 3 that can process the accounting for one transaction based on the product registration in that registration device 2.

[0033] The device relationship data will be explained using the registration device 2-1, accounting device 3-1, and accounting device 3-2 shown in Figure 2. The device relationship data includes data associating one registration device 2-1 with two accounting devices 3-1 and 3-2 that can process the accounting of one transaction based on product registration in the registration device 2-1.

[0034] The communication interface 13 includes various interfaces that connect the server 1 to other electronic devices via the network NW in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol so that the server 1 can communicate with them. The communication interface 13 is an example of a communication unit of the server 1.

[0035] The hardware configuration of the server 1 is not limited to the above configuration, and the server 1 allows the omission or modification of the above components and the addition of new components as appropriate.

[0036] Each unit realized by the processor 10 will be described. The processor 10 realizes a communication processing unit 101 and a storage processing unit 102. Each unit realized by the processor 10 can also be referred to as a function. Each unit realized by the processor 10 can also be referred to as being realized in a control unit including the processor 10 and the main memory 11.

[0037] The communication processing unit 101 processes communications between the server 1 and other electronic devices via the communication interface 13. The communication processing unit 101 acquires data, information, or signals from other electronic devices via the communication interface 13. The communication processing unit 101 outputs data, information, or signals from the server 1 to other electronic devices via the communication interface 13. Outputting includes the meaning of transmitting. In the description of the communication processing unit 101 acquiring or outputting data, information, signals, etc., the communication processing unit 101 may be read as the communication interface 13.

[0038] The storage processing unit 102 stores the data or information in the auxiliary storage device 12. The storage processing unit 102 may store the data or information in the main memory 11.

[0039] The device relationship data will now be described.

[0040] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the data structure of the device relationship data stored in the server 1. As shown in FIG. Each registration device 2 is associated with two accounting devices 3 .

[0041] An example of the configuration of the registration device 2 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating the registration device 2. As shown in FIG. The registration device 2 is an electronic device including a processor 20, a main memory 21, an auxiliary storage device 22, a communication interface 23, a scanner 24, an input device 25, and a display device 26. The processor 20, the main memory 21, the auxiliary storage device 22, the communication interface 23, the scanner 24, the input device 25, and the display device 26 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In Fig. 5, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0042] The processor 20 corresponds to the central part of the registration device 2. The processor 20 may have the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned processor 10. The processor 20 is an example of a processing circuit of the registration device 2. The processor 20 loads a program stored in advance in the main memory 21 or the auxiliary storage device 22 into the main memory 21. The program is a program that can cause the processor 20 to execute the processing of each part, which is realized by the processor 20 and will be described later. The processor 20 executes various processes by executing the program loaded into the main memory 21.

[0043] The main memory 21 corresponds to the main storage portion of the registration device 2. The main memory 21 may have the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned main memory 11. The main memory 21 stores programs. The main memory 21 is an example of a storage unit of the registration device 2.

[0044] The auxiliary storage device 22 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the registration device 2. The auxiliary storage device 22 may have the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned auxiliary storage device 12. The auxiliary storage device 22 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processor 20 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processes in the processor 20. The auxiliary storage device 22 is an example of a storage unit of the registration device 2.

[0045] The auxiliary storage device 22 may include a transaction data storage area 221. The transaction data storage area 221 may store first transaction data based on product registration for one transaction on the registration device 2. The transaction data storage area 221 may store output destination information for the first transaction data. The first transaction data and the output destination information are associated with each other.

[0046] The communication interface 23 includes various interfaces that connect the registration device 2 to other electronic devices via the network NW in a manner that enables communication therebetween in accordance with a predetermined communication protocol. The communication interface 23 is an example of a communication unit of the registration device 2.

[0047] The scanner 24 is a device that reads various code symbols and acquires data from the code symbols. The scanner 24 may include a scanner that uses an imaging element such as a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device), or may include a laser scanner. For example, the code symbol is a barcode symbol or a two-dimensional code symbol. The code symbol may include a product code symbol that records a code that can identify the product. The product code symbol is an image attached to the product. The code symbol may include a code symbol that records a store membership code. The member code symbol may be an image attached to a card or an image that can be displayed on a terminal.

[0048] The input device 25 is a device that can input instructions to the registration apparatus 2. For example, the input device 25 may include a keyboard. The input device 25 may also include a touch screen configured together with the display device 26.

[0049] The display device 26 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processor 20. For example, the display device 26 is a liquid crystal display or an EL (Electroluminescence) display. The display device 26 is an example of a display unit of the registration device 2.

[0050] The hardware configuration of the registration device 2 is not limited to the above configuration, and the registration device 2 allows the above components to be omitted or changed, and new components to be added, as appropriate.

[0051] Each unit realized by the processor 20 will be described below. The processor 20 realizes a communication processing unit 201, a registration processing unit 202, and a storage processing unit 203. Each unit realized by the processor 20 can also be referred to as each function. Each unit realized by the processor 20 can also be referred to as being realized in a control unit including the processor 20 and the main memory 21.

[0052] The communication processing unit 201 processes communications between the registration device 2 and other electronic devices via the communication interface 23. The communication processing unit 201 acquires data, information, or signals from other electronic devices via the communication interface 23. The communication processing unit 201 outputs data, information, or signals from the registration device 2 to other electronic devices via the communication interface 23. In the description of the communication processing unit 201 acquiring or outputting data, information, signals, etc., the communication processing unit 201 may be read as the communication interface 23.

[0053] The registration processing unit 202 registers the products based on the product registration operation of each product in one transaction performed by the store clerk using the scanner 24 or the input device 25 .

[0054] The storage processing unit 203 stores the data or information in the auxiliary storage device 22. The storage processing unit 203 may store the data or information in the main memory 21.

[0055] An example of the configuration of the accounting device 3 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating the accounting device 3.

[0056] The accounting device 3 is an electronic device that includes a processor 30, a main memory 31, an auxiliary storage device 32, a communication interface 33, an input / output interface 34, a scanner 35, a change dispenser 36, a printing device 37, an input device 38, and a display device 39. The processor 30, the main memory 31, the auxiliary storage device 32, the communication interface 33, the input / output interface 34, the scanner 35, the change dispenser 36, the printing device 37, the input device 38, and the display device 39 are connected to each other so that signals can be input and output. In FIG. 6, the interface is indicated as "I / F."

[0057] Processor 30 corresponds to the central part of the checkout device 3. Processor 30 may have the same hardware configuration as processor 10 described above. Processor 30 is an example of a processing circuit of the checkout device 3. Processor 30 loads programs that are pre-stored in main memory 31 or auxiliary storage device 32 into main memory 31. The programs are programs that can cause processor 30 to execute the processing of each part realized by processor 30, which will be described later. Processor 30 performs various processes by executing the programs loaded into main memory 31.

[0058] The main memory 31 corresponds to the main storage portion of the accounting device 3. The main memory 31 may have the same hardware configuration as the main memory 31 described above. The main memory 31 stores programs. The main memory 31 is an example of a storage unit of the accounting device 3.

[0059] The auxiliary storage device 32 corresponds to the auxiliary storage portion of the accounting device 3. The auxiliary storage device 32 may have the same hardware configuration as the above-mentioned auxiliary storage device 12. The auxiliary storage device 32 stores the above-mentioned programs, data used by the processor 30 when performing various processes, and data generated by the processing by the processor 20. The auxiliary storage device 32 is an example of the storage portion of the accounting device 3.

[0060] The auxiliary storage device 32 can include a communication destination storage area 321. The communication destination storage area 321 can store communication destination information. The communication destination information is information that indicates the electronic devices with which the accounting device 3 communicates. The communication destination information includes information that indicates the registration device 2 with which the accounting device 3 communicates, out of the multiple registration devices 2 included in the data processing system S.

[0061] Communication destination information will be explained using the registration device 2-1, accounting device 3-1, and accounting device 3-2 shown in Figure 2 as examples. The communication destination information stored in accounting device 3-1 includes information indicating the registration device 2-1 with which accounting device 3-1 communicates, out of the multiple registration devices 2 included in data processing system S. The communication destination information stored in accounting device 3-2 includes information indicating the registration device 2-1 with which accounting device 3-2 communicates, out of the multiple registration devices 2 included in data processing system S.

[0062] The communication interface 33 includes various interfaces that connect the accounting device 3 to other electronic devices via the network NW in accordance with a specific communication protocol. The communication interface 33 is an example of the accounting device 3's communication unit.

[0063] The input / output interface 34 includes various interfaces that communicatively connect the checkout device 3 to other electronic devices via direct wired or wireless connection. For example, the input / output interface 34 connects the checkout device 3 to a card reader. A card reader is a device that reads card data recorded on a magnetic stripe or IC (Integrated Circuit) chip of a card medium. The card medium may include a credit card. For example, the input / output interface 34 connects the checkout device 3 to a sensor 4.

[0064] The scanner 35 is a device that reads various code symbols and acquires data from the code symbols. The scanner 35 may have the same hardware configuration as the above-described scanner 24. For example, the code symbols may include code symbols for code payments.

[0065] The change dispenser 36 is a device that dispenses bills or coins equivalent to the change amount.

[0066] The printing device 37 is a device for printing on receipts. For example, the printing device 37 is a thermal printer or an inkjet printer.

[0067] The input device 38 is a device that can input instructions to the checkout apparatus 3. The input device 38 may have the same hardware configuration as the input device 25 described above.

[0068] The display device 39 is a device capable of displaying various images under the control of the processor 30. The display device 39 may have the same hardware configuration as the display device 26 described above.

[0069] The hardware configuration of the transaction device 3 is not limited to the above configuration. The transaction device 3 allows for the omission or modification of the above components and the addition of new components as appropriate.

[0070] Each unit realized by the processor 30 will be described below. The processor 30 realizes a communication processing unit 301, an accounting processing unit 302, and a sensor control unit 303. Each unit realized by the processor 30 can also be referred to as a function. Each unit realized by the processor 30 can also be referred to as being realized in a control unit including the processor 30 and the main memory 31.

[0071] The communication processing unit 301 processes communications between the accounting device 3 and other electronic devices via the communication interface 33. The communication processing unit 301 acquires data, information, or signals from other electronic devices via the communication interface 33. The communication processing unit 301 outputs data, information, or signals from the accounting device 3 to other electronic devices via the communication interface 33. In descriptions of the communication processing unit 301 acquiring or outputting data, information, signals, etc., the communication processing unit 301 may be read as the communication interface 33.

[0072] The accounting processing unit 302 processes the accounting of one transaction based on the accounting data. The accounting processing unit 302 processes the accounting of one transaction in accordance with the accounting method selected by the customer. Accounting methods include offline accounting and online accounting. Offline accounting is a payment method in which the accounting device 3 does not require connection with other electronic devices via a network such as the Internet. For example, offline accounting is a payment method performed by cash. Online accounting is a payment method in which the accounting device 3 connects with other electronic devices via a network such as the Internet. For example, online accounting is a payment method such as credit card payment, electronic money payment, debit card payment, and code payment.

[0073] The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4 connected to the accounting device 3. For example, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4 to an enabled state or a disabled state. Controlling the sensor 4 to an enabled state includes changing the sensor 4 from a disabled state to an enabled state. Controlling the sensor 4 to an enabled state includes maintaining the sensor 4 in the enabled state. Controlling the sensor 4 to a disabled state includes changing the sensor 4 from an enabled state to a disabled state. Controlling the sensor 4 to a disabled state includes maintaining the sensor 4 in the disabled state. The enabled state is a state in which the detection function of the sensor 4 is enabled. In the enabled state, the detection function of the sensor 4 is ON, and the sensor 4 detects people present within the recognition range of the sensor 4. The disabled state is a state in which the detection function of the sensor 4 is disabled. In the disabled state, the detection function of the sensor 4 is OFF, and the sensor 4 does not detect people present within the recognition range of the sensor 4.

[0074] (Example of operation) An example of the operation of the data processing system S configured as above will now be described. Here, the server 1, and the registration device 2-1, accounting device 3-1, and accounting device 3-2 shown in FIG. 2 will be used as examples. The processing procedures described below are merely examples, and each process may be modified as much as possible. Furthermore, steps may be omitted, replaced, or added as appropriate depending on the embodiment.

[0075] (First operation example) A first operation example will be described. The first operation example is an example in which the server 1 stores accounting data. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a first operation example of the data processing system S. In FIG.

[0076] The registration device 2-1 generates first transaction data based on the product registration for one transaction by customer UB. The registration device 2-1 outputs the first transaction data to the server 1.

[0077] The server 1 acquires the first transaction data from the registration device 2-1. Based on the acquired first transaction data, the server 1 saves second transaction data based on the first transaction data in the auxiliary storage device 12.

[0078] Let us assume that clerk UA enters the recognition range of sensor 4-1 connected to checkout device 3-1, and sensor 4-1 detects clerk UA. Based on the detection of clerk UA by sensor 4-1, checkout device 3-1 outputs a request to server 1. The request is a request for transaction data. The request can also be considered a signal requesting transaction data. Because sensor 4-2 does not detect clerk UA, checkout device 3-2 does not output a request to server 1. The request can also be interpreted as a signal.

[0079] Server 1 outputs the second accounting data to accounting device 3-1 based on a request from accounting device 3-1 to server 1. In this case, server 1 does not receive a request from accounting device 3-2, so it does not output the second accounting data to accounting device 3-2.

[0080] The processing by the registration device 2-1 in the first operation example will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of processing by the processor 20 of the registration device 2-1 in the first operation example.

[0081] The registration processing unit 202 registers a product based on a product registration operation for a product in one transaction performed by the store clerk UA using the scanner 24 or the input device 25 (ACT1). In ACT1, for example, the registration processing unit 202 acquires product data from the auxiliary storage device 22 or the server 1 based on a code capable of identifying the product input using the scanner 24 or the input device 25. The registration processing unit 202 registers the product data in the main memory 21 or the auxiliary storage device 22.

[0082] The registration processing unit 202 detects that the store clerk UA has pressed the subtotal key using the input device 25 (ACT2). The subtotal key is a key for inputting an instruction regarding the completion of product registration for one transaction in order to calculate the billing amount for that transaction. Pressing the subtotal key is an example of inputting an instruction regarding the completion of product registration for one transaction. If the subtotal key has not been pressed on the registration device 2-1 (ACT2, NO), the registration processing unit 202 continues processing in ACT1. If the subtotal key has been pressed on the registration device 2-1 (ACT2, YES), the processing transitions from ACT2 to ACT3.

[0083] When the subtotal key is pressed on the registration device 2-1, the registration processing unit 202 generates first transaction data based on the product registration for one transaction for customer UB (ACT 3). In ACT 3, for example, the registration processing unit 202 generates the first transaction data based on the product data for each registered product 92 for one transaction.

[0084] When the subtotal key is pressed on the registration device 2-1, the communication processing unit 201 outputs the first accounting data from the registration device 2-1 to the server 1 (ACT4).

[0085] The processing by the server 1 in the first operation example will be described. FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of processing by the processor 10 of the server 1 in the first operation example.

[0086] The communication processing unit 101 acquires the first transaction data from the registration device 2-1 (ACT11).

[0087] The storage processing unit 102 saves the second billing data in the auxiliary storage device 12 (ACT 12). In ACT 12, for example, the storage processing unit 102 saves the second billing data based on the first billing data in the auxiliary storage device 12. The storage processing unit 102 may also save the second billing data, which is the same data as the first billing data, in the auxiliary storage device 12. The storage processing unit 102 may also save the second billing data generated based on the first billing data in the auxiliary storage device 12.

[0088] As described above, when the subtotal key is pressed on the registration device 2-1, the registration device 2-1 outputs the first billing data to the server 1. The storage processing unit 102 stores the second billing data in the auxiliary storage device 12 based on the first billing data acquired by the communication processing unit 101. Therefore, when the subtotal key is pressed on the registration device 2-1, the storage processing unit 102 stores the second billing data in the auxiliary storage device 12. The storage processing unit 102 may also store the second billing data in the main memory 11.

[0089] When the storage processing unit 102 has saved the second billing data in the auxiliary memory device 12, the communication processing unit 101 outputs a save completion notification from the server 1 to the billing devices 3-1 and 3-2 (ACT13). The save completion notification is a notification regarding the completion of saving the billing data. The save completion notification is a notification issued after the subtotal key is pressed on the registration device 2-1. The save completion notification is an example of a notification based on the subtotal key being pressed on the registration device 2-1. The save completion notification from the server 1 is a notification regarding the completion of saving the second billing data to the auxiliary memory device 12 of the server 1. For example, the save completion notification from the server 1 is a notification indicating that the second billing data has been saved to the auxiliary memory device 12 on the server 1. The notification may also be interpreted as a signal.

[0090] The communication processing unit 101 receives a request from the accounting device 3-1 or 3-2 (ACT 14). Here, it is assumed that the communication processing unit 101 receives a request from the accounting device 3-1.

[0091] The communication processing unit 101 outputs the second transaction data from the server 1 to the transaction device 3-1 (ACT 15). In ACT 15, for example, the communication processing unit 101 outputs the second transaction data from the server 1 to the transaction device 3-1 based on a request from the transaction device 3-1 to the server 1. The processor 10 can identify the registered device 2-1 associated with the transaction device 3-1 that sent the request based on the device relationship data stored in the auxiliary storage device 12. The processor 10 can acquire the second transaction data stored in the auxiliary storage device 12 that is associated with information indicating the identified registered device 2-1.

[0092] The processing by the accounting device 3-1 in the first operation example will be described. First, the process of acquiring transaction data by the transaction device 3-1 in the first operation example will be described. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating the processing steps involved in acquiring transaction data by the processor 30 of the transaction device 3-1 in the first operation example.

[0093] The sensor control unit 303 determines whether the store clerk UA has been detected by the sensor 4-1 (ACT21). In ACT21, for example, the sensor control unit 303 may determine that the store clerk UA has been detected by the sensor 4-1 based on a signal from the sensor 4-1 indicating the detection of the store clerk UA. If the sensor control unit 303 does not determine that the store clerk UA has been detected by the sensor 4-1 (ACT21, NO), it continues the processing of ACT21. If the sensor control unit 303 determines that the store clerk UA has been detected by the sensor 4-1 (ACT21, YES), the processing transitions from ACT21 to ACT22.

[0094] The communication processing unit 301 outputs a request to the server 1 based on the detection of the store clerk UA by the sensor 4-1 (ACT 22).

[0095] The communications processing unit 301 acquires the second transaction data from the server 1 based on the detection of the user UA by the sensor 4-1 (ACT23). In ACT23, for example, the communications processing unit 301 acquires the second transaction data from the server 1 as a response to the request after outputting the request.

[0096] The accounting processor 302 processes the transaction based on the second accounting data (ACT24). In ACT24, for example, the accounting processor 302 processes the transaction based on the second accounting data in accordance with the accounting method selected by the customer UB using the input device 38. If the second accounting data is code data that uniquely identifies a transaction, the communications processor 301 obtains the data necessary for the transaction from the server 1 via the network NW based on the second accounting data.

[0097] Next, the process of controlling the sensor 4-1 by the accounting device 3-1 in the first operation example will be described. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating the control of the sensor 4-1 by the processor 30 of the accounting device 3-1 in the first operation example. The notation "ON" in Fig. 11 indicates an enabled state, and the notation "OFF" in Fig. 11 indicates a disabled state.

[0098] The operating state of the accounting device 3-1 is a state related to the operation of the accounting device 3-1. For example, the operating state of the accounting device 3-1 includes multiple states such as "idle," "notification acquisition," "accounting data acquisition," and "accounting processing." For example, the operating state of the accounting device 3-1 transitions in the order of "idle," "notification acquisition," "accounting data acquisition," and "accounting processing." After the "accounting processing" state, the operating state of the accounting device 3-1 transitions from the "accounting processing" state to the "idle" state.

[0099] The "idle" state is a state in which the accounting processor 302 is waiting to start processing a transaction. For example, the "idle" state is the period from when the accounting processor 302 has finished processing a transaction until when the accounting processor 302 starts processing the next transaction. The accounting process for a transaction starts after the accounting device 3-1 acquires the second transaction data. The accounting process for a transaction may also start after the accounting device 3-1 acquires the second transaction data and displays information about the transaction, such as the billing amount, on the display device 26. The accounting process for a transaction ends after the customer UB has completed the transaction. The accounting process for a transaction may also end when the accounting device 3-1 ejects a receipt. The waiting state for the start of a transaction is an example of a state that differs from the accounting process states described below.

[0100] The "notification acquisition" state is a state in which, in the "idle" state, the communication processing unit 301 acquires a notification from the server 1 or the registration device 2-1. For example, the "notification acquisition" state is a state in which the communication processing unit 301 acquires a save completion notification from the server 1.

[0101] The "notification acquisition" state may be a state in which, in the "idle" state, the communication processing unit 301 acquires a registration completion notification from the registration device 2-1. The registration completion notification is a notification regarding the completion of product registration for one transaction in the registration device 2-1. For example, the registration completion notification is a notification indicating that the subtotal key has been pressed on the registration device 2-1. The registration completion notification is a notification that is issued after the subtotal key has been pressed on the registration device 2-1. The registration completion notification is an example of a notification based on the subtotal key being pressed on the registration device 2-1. When the subtotal key is pressed on the registration device 2-1, the communication processing unit 201 outputs the registration completion notification from the registration device 2-1 to the accounting device 3-1 and the accounting device 3-2.

[0102] The "acquire billing data" state is a state in which the communication processing unit 301 acquires second billing data during the idle state.

[0103] The "accounting processing" state is the accounting processing state of a transaction by the accounting processor 302. For example, the accounting processing state is from the start of accounting processing of a transaction by the accounting processor 302 to the end of accounting processing of the transaction.

[0104] The usability status of the checkout device 3-1 is a status regarding whether the checkout device 3-1 can be used for a transaction. For example, the usability status of the checkout device 3-1 includes multiple states such as "normal," "needs attention," and "unavailable."

[0105] The "normal" state is a state in which the accounting device 3-1 can be used. The "Caution Required" state requires more attention than the "Normal" state, but is a state in which the checkout device 3-1 can still be used. For example, the "Caution Required" state can be a state in which the change dispenser is nearly empty, or a state in which the receipt dispenser is nearly empty. Therefore, if the checkout device 3-1 continues to be used without hardware improvements such as refilling the change or replacing the receipt, the usability state of the checkout device 3-1 will transition from the "Caution Required" state to the "Unusable" state. The usability state of the checkout device 3-1 may include multiple levels of "Caution Required" states. For example, multiple levels are two levels. The usability state of the checkout device 3-1 may include a first-level "Caution Required" state and a second-level "Caution Required" state. The first-level "Caution Required" state is a "Caution Required" state that is closer to the "Normal" state than the "Unusable" state. The first level "attention required" state may be the state from when the change near empty or receipt near empty is detected until the progress of the change near empty or receipt near empty exceeds a predetermined threshold. The predetermined threshold is the value before the change runs out or the receipt runs out, and can be set as appropriate. The second level "attention required" state is a "attention required" state that is closer to the "impossible" state than the "normal" state. The second level "attention required" state may be the state from when the change near empty or receipt near empty exceeds a predetermined threshold until the change runs out or the receipt runs out, etc. The "attention required" state in Figure 11 refers to the first level "attention required" state. The "unavailable" state is a state in which the checkout device 3-1 cannot be used. For example, the "unavailable" state is a state in which an error has occurred that affects the use of the checkout device 3-1, such as running out of change, running out of receipts, a printer jam, or forgotten change.

[0106] Control of the sensor 4-1 based on the operating state of the checkout device 3-1 will be described with reference to Figure 11. The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to an enabled or disabled state based on the operating state of the checkout device 3-1. While the explanation will be given using an example in which the usability state is in the "normal" state, the same applies when the usability state is in the first level "caution required" state.

[0107] In the "idle" state, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to be in a disabled state. In the state waiting for the start of the transaction process, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to be in a disabled state until a notification is received from the communication processing unit 301. For example, the sensor control unit 303 maintains the sensor 4-1 in a disabled state.

[0108] In the "notification acquisition" state, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to the enabled state. The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to the enabled state based on the acquisition of a notification by the communication processing unit 301 in the state waiting for the start of the transaction process. For example, the sensor control unit 303 changes the sensor 4-1 from the disabled state to the enabled state.

[0109] The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to be in an enabled state from after the communication processing unit 301 receives the notification until the communication processing unit 301 receives the second transaction data. For example, the sensor control unit 303 maintains the sensor 4-1 in an enabled state.

[0110] In the "acquire transaction data" state, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to the disabled state. The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to the disabled state based on the acquisition of second transaction data by the communications processing unit 301. The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to the disabled state based on the acquisition of second transaction data after the communications processing unit 301 acquires a notification while waiting for the transaction to start. For example, the sensor control unit 303 changes the sensor 4-1 from the enabled state to the disabled state.

[0111] In the "transaction in progress" state, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state. The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state when the transaction processing unit 302 is processing a single transaction. For example, the sensor control unit 303 maintains the sensor 4-1 in a disabled state. The sensor control unit 303 also controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state based on a notification received by the communication processing unit 301 when the transaction processing unit 302 is processing a single transaction. For example, the sensor control unit 303 maintains the sensor 4-1 in a disabled state. This prevents the transaction processing device 3-1 from detecting the store clerk UA via the sensor 4-1 connected to the transaction processing device 3-1. Because the sensor 4-1 does not detect the store clerk UA, the transaction processing device 3-1 does not acquire new second transaction data during the transaction.

[0112] When the usability status is "unavailable," the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state regardless of the operating status of the checkout device 3-1. For example, the sensor control unit 303 maintains the sensor 4-1 in a disabled state regardless of the operating status of the checkout device 3-1. When the usability status is the first level "caution required," the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state, just as when the usability status is "unavailable."

[0113] Referring to FIG. 11, the control of the sensor 4-1 according to the availability status of the checkout device 3-1 will be described. The sensor control unit 303 changes the control of the sensor 4-1 based on the operating status of the checkout device 3-1 according to the availability status of the checkout device 3-1. For example, the sensor control unit 303 changes the control of the sensor 4-1 based on the notification received by the communication processing unit 301 while the checkout device 3-1 is waiting to start the transaction according to the availability status of the checkout device 3-1. If the availability status is "normal" or a first-level "caution required" status, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to an enabled state based on the notification received by the communication processing unit 301 while the checkout device 3-1 is waiting to start the transaction. If the availability status is "unavailable" or a second-level "caution required" status, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state based on the notification received by the communication processing unit 301 while the checkout device 3-1 is waiting to start the transaction. The sensor control unit 303 may not change the control of the sensor 4-1 when the usability state is a first level "caution required" state and a second level "caution required" state. In this example, whether to change the control of the sensor 4-1 when the usability state is a first level "caution required" state and a second level "caution required" state may be changeable by settings. The settings include a first setting that changes the control of the sensor 4-1 when the usability state is a first level "caution required" state and a second level "caution required" state. The settings include a second setting that does not change the control of the sensor 4-1 when the usability state is a first level "caution required" state and a second level "caution required" state. When the setting is the first setting, the sensor control unit 303 changes the control of the sensor 4-1 as described above when the usability state is a first level "caution required" state and a second level "caution required" state. When the setting is the second setting, the sensor control unit 303 does not change the control of the sensor 4-1 depending on whether the usability state is the first level "caution required" state or the second level "caution required" state. In this example, when the usability state is the "caution required" state, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 in the same way as when the usability state is the "unusable" state.

[0114] FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating the processing steps related to the control of the sensor 4-1 by the processor 30 of the transaction device 3-1 in the first operation example.

[0115] The communication processing unit 301 receives a notification (ACT31). In one example, the communication processing unit 301 receives a storage completion notification from the server 1. In another example, the communication processing unit 301 receives a registration completion notification from the registration device 2-1.

[0116] Based on the notification received by the communication processing unit 301, the sensor control unit 303 determines whether the operating state of the checkout device 3-1 is "idle" (ACT32). If the operating state of the checkout device 3-1 is not "idle" (ACT32, NO), the process transitions from ACT32 to ACT33. If the operating state of the checkout device 3-1 is not "idle," it is assumed that the operating state of the checkout device 3-1 is "transaction in progress." If the operating state of the checkout device 3-1 is "idle" (ACT32, YES), the process transitions from ACT32 to ACT34.

[0117] The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state based on the notification received by the communication processing unit 301 in the "transaction processing in progress" state (ACT 33).

[0118] The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to be in an enabled state based on the notification received from the communication processing unit 301 in the "idle" state (ACT 34).

[0119] The sensor control unit 303 determines whether the second transaction data has been acquired by the communication processing unit 301 (ACT35). If the sensor control unit 303 determines that the second transaction data has been acquired by the communication processing unit 301 (ACT35, YES), the process transitions from ACT35 to ACT36. If the sensor control unit 303 does not determine that the second transaction data has been acquired by the communication processing unit 301 (ACT35, NO), the process transitions from ACT35 to ACT37.

[0120] Based on the second transaction data acquired by the communication processing unit 301, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state (ACT36).

[0121] The sensor control unit 303 determines whether a predetermined time has elapsed since the communication processing unit 301 received the notification (ACT37). The predetermined time can be set as appropriate. If the sensor control unit 303 determines that the predetermined time has elapsed (ACT37, YES), the process proceeds from ACT37 to ACT38. If the sensor control unit 303 does not determine that the predetermined time has elapsed (ACT37, NO), the process proceeds from ACT37 to ACT35.

[0122] The sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to be in a disabled state based on the passage of a predetermined time (ACT 38).

[0123] The processing by the checkout device 3-2 in the first operation example is similar to the processing by the checkout device 3-1 in the first operation example, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0124] In a first operating example, the data processing system S may include a server 1 having at least a communication processing unit 101 and a storage processing unit 102, and an accounting device 3-1 having at least a communication processing unit 301 and an accounting processing unit 302. (Second operation example) A second operation example will be described. The second operation example is an example in which the registration device 2-1 stores accounting data. FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a second operation example of the data processing system S. In FIG.

[0125] The registration device 2-1 generates first transaction data based on the product registration of one transaction by customer UB. The registration device 2-1 stores the first transaction data in the auxiliary storage device 22.

[0126] Let's assume that clerk UA enters the recognition range of sensor 4-1 connected to checkout device 3-1, and sensor 4-1 detects clerk UA. Based on the detection of clerk UA by sensor 4-1, checkout device 3-1 outputs a request to registration device 2-1. Because sensor 4-2 does not detect clerk UA, checkout device 3-2 does not output a request to registration device 2-1.

[0127] Registration device 2-1 outputs the first transaction data to accounting device 3-1 based on a request from accounting device 3-1 to registration device 2-1. Note that in this case, registration device 2-1 does not receive a request from accounting device 3-2, and therefore does not output the first transaction data to accounting device 3-2.

[0128] The processing by the registration device 2-1 in the second operation example will be described. FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating the procedure of processing by the processor 20 of the registration device 2-1 in the second operation example.

[0129] The registration processing unit 202 registers the product (ACT41) based on the product registration operation of the product in one transaction performed by the store clerk UA using the scanner 24 or the input device 25. The processing in ACT41 is the same as the processing in ACT1 described above.

[0130] The registration processing unit 202 detects that the store clerk UA has pressed the subtotal key using the input device 25 (ACT42). The processing in ACT42 is the same as the processing in ACT2 described above. If the subtotal key has not been pressed on the registration device 2-1 (ACT42, NO), the registration processing unit 202 continues the processing in ACT41. If the subtotal key has been pressed on the registration device 2-1 (ACT42, YES), the processing transitions from ACT42 to ACT43.

[0131] When the subtotal key is pressed on the registration device 2-1, the registration processing unit 202 generates first accounting data based on the product registration for one transaction by customer UB (ACT 43). The processing in ACT 43 is the same as the processing in ACT 3 described above.

[0132] When the subtotal key on the registration device 2-1 is pressed, the storage processing unit 203 stores the first billing data in the auxiliary storage device 22 (ACT 44). The storage processing unit 203 may also store the first billing data in the main memory 21.

[0133] When the storage processing unit 203 has saved the first billing data to the auxiliary storage device 22, the communications processing unit 201 outputs a save completion notification from the registration device 2-1 to the billing devices 3-1 and 3-2 (AC45). The save completion notification from the registration device 2-1 is a notification indicating that the first billing data has been saved to the auxiliary storage device 22 of the registration device 2-1. For example, the save completion notification from the registration device 2-1 is a notification indicating that the first billing data has been saved to the auxiliary storage device 22 in the registration device 2-1.

[0134] The communication processing unit 201 receives a request from the accounting device 3-1 or 3-2 (ACT 46). In this example, it is assumed that the communication processing unit 201 receives a request from the accounting device 3-1.

[0135] The communication processing unit 201 outputs the first billing data from the registration device 2-1 to the billing device 3-1 (ACT 47). In ACT 47, for example, the communication processing unit 201 outputs the first billing data from the registration device 2-1 to the billing device 3-1 based on a request from the registration device 3-1 to the registration device 2-1.

[0136] The processing by the accounting device 3-1 in the second operation example will be described. First, the process of acquiring transaction data by the transaction device 3-1 in the second operation example will be described. The process for acquiring transaction data by the transaction device 3-1 in the second operational example is similar to the process for acquiring transaction data by the transaction device 3-1 in the first operational example described using the flowchart illustrated in FIG. 10, except for the following points: In ACT 22, the communication processing unit 301 outputs a request to the server 1 in the first operational example, but outputs a request to the registration device 2-1 in the second operational example. Note that in the second operational example, the communication processing unit 301 may determine the registration device 2-1 as the registration device 2 with which the transaction device 3-1 will communicate, based on the communication destination information stored in the auxiliary storage device 32. In ACT 23, the communication processing unit 301 acquires second transaction data from the server 1 in the first operational example, but acquires first transaction data from the registration device 2-1 in the second operational example. In ACT 24, the transaction processing unit 302 processes the transaction based on the second transaction data in the first operational example, but processes the transaction based on the first transaction data in the second operational example.

[0137] Next, the process of controlling the sensor 4-1 by the accounting device 3-1 in the second operation example will be described. The processing relating to the control of sensor 4-1 by accounting device 3-1 in the second operation example is the same as the processing relating to the control of sensor 4-1 by accounting device 3-1 in the first operation example described using the diagram illustrated in Figure 11 and the flowchart illustrated in Figure 12, except for the following points.

[0138] The above description using FIG. 11 can be applied to the second operation example by replacing the "save completion notification from server 1" in the first operation example with "save completion notification from registration device 2-1." The above description using FIG. 11 can be applied to the second operation example by replacing the "second billing data" in the first operation example with "first billing data." In ACT 31 of FIG. 12, communication processing unit 301 obtains a save completion notification from server 1 in the first operation example, but obtains a save completion notification from registration device 2-1 in the second operation example. In ACT 35 of FIG. 12, sensor control unit 303 determines whether communication processing unit 301 has obtained the second billing data in the first operation example, but determines whether communication processing unit 301 has obtained the first billing data in the second operation example. In ACT36 of Figure 12, in the first operation example, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state based on the acquisition of second accounting data by the communication processing unit 301, but in the second operation example, the sensor control unit 303 controls the sensor 4-1 to a disabled state based on the acquisition of first accounting data by the communication processing unit 301.

[0139] The processing by the checkout device 3-2 in the second operation example is similar to the processing by the checkout device 3-1 in the second operation example, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted.

[0140] In a second operating example, the data processing system S may include a registration device 2-1 having at least a communication processing unit 201 and a memory processing unit 203, and an accounting device 3-1 having at least a communication processing unit 301 and an accounting processing unit 302.

[0141] (effect) A checkout device according to an embodiment includes a communication processor that acquires data related to a transaction based on product registration in the registration device from the registration device or from an electronic device other than the registration device based on detection of a user of the registration device by a sensor. The checkout device also includes an accounting processor that processes the transaction based on the data related to the transaction. In the transaction device according to the embodiment, the communication processing unit outputs a request for data regarding a transaction to an electronic device based on detection by a sensor, and obtains the data regarding the transaction from the electronic device after outputting the request. Because the checkout device acquires data about a transaction based on the clerk's detection by the sensor, the clerk simply performs a movement that will be detected by the sensor connected to the desired checkout device. This eliminates the need for the clerk to operate the registration device to specify the desired checkout device. Furthermore, because the sensor is connected one-to-one with the checkout device, the clerk can easily perform a movement that will be detected by the sensor connected to the desired checkout device. This reduces the burden on the clerk operating the registration device.

[0142] A checkout device according to an embodiment includes a sensor control unit that controls the sensor to an enabled or disabled state based on the operating state of the checkout device. For example, the sensor control unit controls the sensor to an enabled state based on a notification received from a communication processing unit based on an instruction to end product registration for a transaction in a registration device. The sensor control unit controls the sensor to a disabled state based on data related to the transaction received from the communication processing unit. This allows the checkout device to control the sensor to an enabled state when it is ready to receive data about a new transaction.The checkout device can also control the sensor to a disabled state when it is not ready to receive data about a new transaction during a transaction.This prevents the checkout device from acquiring data about a new transaction when it is not ready to receive data about a new transaction.If a checkout device other than the one the clerk is attempting to use for the transaction is not ready to receive data about a new transaction, the sensor connected to this other checkout device can be prevented from detecting the clerk.

[0143] In the checkout device according to the embodiment, the sensor control unit changes the control of the sensor based on the operating state of the checkout device depending on whether the checkout device is usable or not. This prevents the checkout device from enabling the sensor when it is disabled. The sensor connected to the checkout device will not detect a store clerk even if the store clerk accidentally enters the sensor's recognition range. The checkout device will not acquire data related to a transaction when it is disabled. This allows the checkout device to help customers complete checkouts smoothly.

[0144] [Other embodiments] In the above embodiment, the server 1 is implemented by a single electronic device, but the present invention is not limited to this. The server 1 may be implemented by a system in which functions are distributed among multiple electronic devices.

[0145] The above-described embodiments may be applied not only to a data processing system but also to a method executed by a data processing system. The above-described embodiments may be applied to a program that can cause a computer to execute the processing of each unit included in a data processing system. The above-described embodiments may be applied not only to electronic devices such as a server, a registration device, and an accounting device, but also to a method executed by an electronic device. The above-described embodiments may be applied to a program that can cause a computer to execute the processing of each unit included in an electronic device.

[0146] A data processing system may include one electronic device or multiple electronic devices, and therefore each unit included in the data processing system may be realized by one electronic device or may be distributed across multiple electronic devices.

[0147] The program may be transferred in a state where it is stored in an electronic device, or in a state where it is not stored in an electronic device. In the latter case, the program may be transferred via a network, or in a state where it is recorded on a recording medium. The recording medium is a non-transitory tangible medium. The recording medium is an electronic device-readable medium. The recording medium may be in any form, such as a CD-ROM or memory card, as long as it can store the program and be readable by an electronic device.

[0148] Although several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be embodied in various other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their modifications are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and are also included in the scope of the invention and its equivalents as defined in the claims. The following is the scope of the claims as originally filed: (1) A sensor, a communication processing unit that acquires data relating to a transaction based on the product registration in the registration device from the registration device or an electronic device different from the registration device based on detection of a user of the registration device by the sensor; an accounting processing unit that processes accounting for the transaction based on data related to the transaction; An accounting device comprising: (2) the communication processing unit outputs a request for data regarding the one transaction to the electronic device based on the detection by the sensor, and acquires the data regarding the one transaction from the electronic device after outputting the request; (1) The accounting device described in (1). (3) The system further includes a sensor control unit that controls the sensor to be enabled or disabled based on the operating state of the accounting device. (1) The accounting device described in (1). (4) The sensor control unit changes the control of the sensor based on the operating state of the checkout device depending on whether the checkout device is usable or not. (3) The accounting device described in (3). (5) A data processing system comprising a registration device, an electronic device different from the registration device, and an accounting device having a sensor, The electronic device includes: a storage processing unit that stores data relating to one transaction based on the product registration in the registration device in a storage unit; a communication processing unit that outputs data relating to the transaction to the accounting device; Equipped with The accounting device a communication processing unit that acquires data regarding the transaction from the electronic device based on detection of the user of the registration device by the sensor; an accounting processing unit that processes accounting for the transaction based on data related to the transaction; Equipped with Data processing system. (6) The computer of the accounting device connected to the sensor a function of acquiring data relating to a transaction based on the product registration in the registration device from the registration device or an electronic device different from the registration device based on detection of a user of the registration device by the sensor; processing an accounting for the transaction based on data relating to the transaction; A program to execute. [Explanation of symbols]

[0149] 1...server, 2...registration device, 2-1...registration device, 3...accounting device, 3-1...accounting device, 3-2...accounting device, 4...sensor, 4-1...sensor, 4-2...sensor, 5...unit, 6...basket, 7...basket, 8-1...unit, 8-2...unit, 10...processor, 11...main memory, 12...auxiliary storage device, 13...communication interface, 20...processor, 21...main memory, 22...auxiliary storage device, 23...communication interface, 24...scanner, 25...input device, 26...display device, 30...processor, 31...main memory, 32...auxiliary storage device, 33...communication interface, 3 4...input / output interface, 35...scanner, 36...change dispenser, 37...printing device, 38...input device, 39...display device, 51...area, 52...area, 91...unregistered product, 92...registered product, 101...communication processing unit, 102...storage processing unit, 121...accounting data storage area, 122...device relationship storage area, 201...communication processing unit, 202...registration processing unit, 203...storage processing unit, 221...accounting data storage area, 301...communication processing unit, 302...accounting processing unit, 303...sensor control unit, 321...communication destination storage area, NW...network, S...data processing system, UA...store clerk, UB...customer.

Claims

1. A sensor, a communication processing unit that acquires data relating to a transaction based on the product registration in the registration device from the registration device or an electronic device different from the registration device based on the detection by the sensor of a store clerk operating the registration device; an accounting processing unit that processes accounting for the transaction based on data related to the transaction; a sensor control unit that controls the sensor to be enabled or disabled based on the operating state of the accounting device; An accounting device comprising:

2. the communication processing unit outputs a request for data regarding the one transaction to the electronic device based on the detection by the sensor, and acquires the data regarding the one transaction from the electronic device after outputting the request; The accounting device of claim 1 .

3. the sensor control unit changes the control of the sensor based on the operating state of the checkout device in accordance with the availability state of the checkout device, which is related to whether the checkout device can be used for the transaction; The accounting device of claim 1 .

4. A data processing system comprising a registration device, an electronic device different from the registration device, and an accounting device having a sensor, The electronic device includes: a storage processing unit that stores data relating to one transaction based on the product registration in the registration device in a storage unit; a communication processing unit that outputs data relating to the transaction to the accounting device; Equipped with The accounting device a communication processing unit that acquires data regarding the transaction from the electronic device based on detection by the sensor of a store clerk operating the registration device; an accounting processing unit that processes accounting for the transaction based on data related to the transaction; a sensor control unit that controls the sensor to an enabled state or a disabled state based on the operating state of the accounting device; Equipped with Data processing system.

5. The computer of the accounting device connected to the sensor a function of acquiring data relating to a transaction based on the product registration in the registration device from the registration device or an electronic device different from the registration device based on detection by the sensor of a store clerk operating the registration device; processing an accounting for the transaction based on data relating to the transaction; a function for controlling the sensor to an enabled or disabled state based on the operating state of the accounting device; A program to execute.

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